Bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia
Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia (BOOP)
Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia (BOOP) is a rare and serious lung condition in which small bronchi become scarred and blocked with fluids and debris. This causes the lung to become stiff, which can lead to difficulty in breathing and other serious symptoms. BOOP is also called cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), idiopathic bronchiolitis obliterans, and chronic interstitial pneumonia (CP). BOOP is closely related to a more serious form of lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS).
BOOP is an idiopathic, or cause-of-unknown, interstitial lung disease (ILD) and a form of organizing pneumonia (OP). It is an inflammatory lung disease characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways (bronchi) in the lower part of the lungs where oxygen enters the body.
BOOP often presents with an inflammatory infiltrate in the walls of the small airways of the lung. This narrowing of the airways can lead to breathing difficulties. Other symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Since these symptoms may be caused by other illnesses, it is important to have a comprehensive evaluation to determine the source of the illness.
Signs and Symptoms
The primary symptom of BOOP is difficulty breathing. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Persistent infections
- Swelling of the feet and ankles
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of BOOP is unknown. However, it is believed that it is caused by an autoimmune reaction or an infection triggered by a virus or bacteria. Other risk factors include:
- Exposure to industrial chemicals and toxins, such as asbestos
- Exposure to radiation
- Exposure to certain medications, such as antineoplastic drugs
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Weakened immune system due to organ transplant or HIV/AIDS
- Smoking
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor may use several tests to diagnose BOOP, including: chest X-ray, lung biopsy, and sputum examination. These tests are used to rule out other possible causes of illness. In some cases, a CT scan may also be used to look for places where airways are blocked.
Treatment of BOOP usually involves a combination of corticosteroids and antibiotics. Corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and decrease symptoms, but need to be taken on a long-term basis. Antibiotics are used to treat any underlying infections. In some cases, oxygen therapy may be used to reduce the amount of oxygen in the lungs. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be necessary.
Prevention
The best way to prevent BOOP is to avoid exposure to environmental and industrial toxins, smoke, and viruses. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen the immune system. Additionally, if you have been exposed to any of the risk factors listed above, it is important to seek prompt medical attention to reduce your risk of developing BOOP.