[Giant cell interstitial pneumonia: a case report and literature review].
OBJECTIVE
To highlight the characteristics of giant cell interstitial pneumonia (GIP).


METHODS
The clinical, radiological and pathological data of a patient with GIP confirmed by open lung biopsy were presented, and relevant literatures were reviewed.


RESULTS
Patients with GIP usually had a history of exposure to metal dust. Clinical presentations include cough and dyspnea on exertion, and pulmonary function testing showed a restrictive abnormality. On chest radiography and high-resolution CT scans, it presents as bilateral areas of ground-glass attenuation, areas of consolidation, diffuse small nodules, extensive reticular opacities and traction bronchiectasis. The main pathological findings include a desquamative interstitial pneumonia (DIP)-like reaction with intra-alveolar macrophages and numerous large multinucleated histiocytes that ingested inflammatory cells were admixed with macrophages. The finding of GIP is almost pathognomonic for hard metal pneumoconiosis.


CONCLUSIONS
GIP is a very rare chronic interstitial pneumonia, and has no characteristic clinical manifestations. Radiographic findings are similar to other idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. Meticulous history taking on occupational exposure is important for the diagnosis of GIP.
Cai
Hou-rong
HR
Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing 210008, China.
Cao
Min
M
Meng
Fan-qing
FQ
Wei
Jing-yi
JY
Hou
Jie
J
D001706:Biopsy; D004391:Dust; D015726:Giant Cells; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000473:pathology*; D017563:Lung Diseases, Interstitial / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D019216:Metals, Heavy; D011009:Pneumoconiosis / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D055815:Young Adult
D004391:Dust; D019216:Metals, Heavy