90% of desquamative interstitial pneumonia cases are linked to cigarette smoking. Other suggested causes of DIP include environmental or occupational exposure, systemic disorders and infections.[6] In many cases, no specific cause can be identified, and these are classified as idiopathic.[7]
Risk factors
Active or passive exposure to cigarette smoke is the most well-established risk factor for desquamative interstitial pneumonia. DIP has also been reported in those who do not smoke which indicates that there are other risk factors for DIP.[6]
While some laboratory abnormalities have been reported in cases of DIP, biological analysis does not usually point toward any diagnosis. Chest X-rays often show non-specific findings or come back normal.[19][20]Pulmonary function tests usually reveal a decrease in diffusion capacity and a restrictive pattern.[7]
Thoracic high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) often shows signs of DIP,[17] however, HRCT has only been reported on in one study. HRCT shows a ground-glass appearance.[20]
The major hallmark of DIP is the presence of a large number of macrophages within the alveoli that are distributed throughout the pulmonary acini. These macrophages are rich in eosinophiliccytoplasm and frequently include a coarsely granular light-brown pigment. There are usually a few multinucleated large cells. The alveolar architecture is typically intact, however there is a modest chronic inflammatory infiltration inside the interstitium. A moderate quantity of eosinophils might also be present. Lymphoid aggregates can be present.[18]
The main treatment for DIP is quitting smoking. Sometimes smoking cessation is successful in managing DIP however in some cases this is not enough. Avoidance of other potential environmental factors is also advised. In those who are moderately to severely symptomatic and who have not responded to quitting smoking, corticosteroids are used. Cytotoxic and immunosuppressive drugs have been used for the treatment of DIP however there is not enough evidence on their usage. In cases of severe DIP lung transplants are an option however recurrence is still possible.[22][16]
Outlook
Desquamative interstitial pneumonia has a favourable prognosis and most patients improve with proper treatment. The mortality rate of DIP is between 6 and 28%.[22] The survival rate of DIP is estimated to be between 68% and 94%. Without treatment around 60% of patients get worse. Spontaneous recovery had also been reported.[16]
Epidemiology
The prevalence of desquamative interstitial pneumonia is unknown,[6] but it most commonly affects people aged 40 to 60,[7] with males twice as likely to have it as females.[4] While DIP can sometimes progress rapidly, severe fibrosis is rare.[6]
History
Desquamative interstitial pneumonia was first defined by Averill Liebow et al. In 1965 Liebow described 18 patients with pulmonary lesions with large alveolar cell proliferation and desquamation. Liebow also noted that the walls of the patient's distal airways were thickened.[23] The name "desquamative interstitial pneumonia" originated from the assumption that the disease was caused by epithelial cell desquamation.[1][4]