Necrotizing pulmonary granulomata in a marijuana smoker

Chest. 2000 May;117(5):1511-5. doi: 10.1378/chest.117.5.1511.

Abstract

We describe the case of a heavy marijuana and tobacco smoker who presented with progressive exertional dyspnea of 2 months' duration, and bilateral nodular lung infiltrates. Examination of the lung fields was normal, and lung function tests showed mild airflow obstruction with moderately reduced gas transfer. BAL returned green-black fluid consisting predominantly of macrophages laden with carbon pigment. Thoracoscopic lung biopsy showed miliary necrotizing granulomata with an alveolar exudate of carbon-laden macrophages within macroscopically blackened lung. The differential diagnosis of pulmonary granulomata in this patient is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / cytology
  • Carbon
  • Female
  • Granuloma, Respiratory Tract / etiology*
  • Granuloma, Respiratory Tract / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases / etiology*
  • Lung Diseases / pathology
  • Macrophages, Alveolar / pathology
  • Marijuana Smoking / adverse effects*
  • Marijuana Smoking / pathology
  • Necrosis

Substances

  • Carbon