Lipid Pneumonia in the Pediatric Age Group and its Complications

Results: A total of 25 patients, 14 females, 11 males, were seen. Twenty-two are alive (88%) and 3 died (12%). Age at diagnosis was 15± 9 month. Period of follow up was 42 ± 56 month. In 80% of the patients, a history of lipid intake through oral route was confirmed in 15 (60%) of the patients for a period of 214 month, with a mean of 6.3 month. Chest x-ray showed mainly consolidation in 23 (92%) patients and atelectasis in 18 (72%). The right lower lobe (RLL) was the predominant lobe involved in 20 (80%). The most common complication encountered was persistent atelectasis in 17 (68%), followed by gastroesohageal reflux in 12 (48%). Bonchiectasis was common in RLL in 6 (24%) patients. Pulmonary function tests showed combined obstructive and restrictive lung disease in 3 (12%) patients. Steroid was used in 21 (84%) patients and inhaled salbutamol in 14 (56%). Diseases that are associated with patients with lipid pneumonia were mainly those of asthma in 10 (40%) patients.