29040: Childhood-onset Interstitial Lung Disease: A Rare Case of Idiopathic, Non-specific Interstitial Pneumonia (NSIP) in a Teenager

Presented Tuesday, October 20, by Giuliana Cerro Chiang, MD, pulmonary and critical care fellow at Cedars Sinai Medical Center, who answered the questions below.

Summary of research:

Interstitial lung disease is a broad group of disorders that affect the pulmonary parenchyma and affect gas exchange. It has been more frequently described in adults, and it is less common in the pediatric population. Here we describe a case of childhood interstitial ILD and how we got to a diagnosis.

What was the impetus for your research?

We present a case of a teenager with shortness of breath. It was very challenging to get to a diagnosis and, therefore, to care for. Getting to a diagnosis and treatment for her was the impetus for this research.

Did you find anything unexpected while conducting your research?

Our patient had no risk factors for ILD. A multidisciplinary team was involved in her care, and we conducted extensive testing. After many weeks, we finally got to a diagnosis, which was found on her lung biopsy.

What are the next steps in your investigation?

This case has boosted my interest in interstitial lung disease (ILD), particularly pulmonary fibrosis. I am interested in looking at how the recent fires (environmental exposures) are related with the onset and exacerbation of ILD.