Overview of Honeycomb Lung Syndrome
Honeycomb lung syndrome (HLS) is a condition in which there are many small cyst-like structures visible to the naked eye, usually no more than 10 mm in diameter and evenly distributed throughout the lungs. It is most often detected on X-ray chest radiographs, and the clinical use of chest CT has made it easier to recognize and identify honeycomb-like changes in the lungs.
Etiology
Diseases causing this syndrome include idiopathic diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, tuberculosis, asbestosis, rheumatoid pneumonia, multiple pulmonary cysts, and radiation pneumonitis.
Symptoms
Progressively worsening dyspnea, shortness of breath, and eventually pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary heart disease can be complicated with corresponding symptoms. Cough and sputum are the main manifestations of infection, often complicated by pneumothorax.
Examination
1. Laboratory examination
Peripheral blood leukocyte count may be elevated in pulmonary infection.
2. Other auxiliary examinations
Chest X-ray and CT examination shows that the texture of both lungs is enhanced and coarse, intricately intertwined into a mesh or typical honeycomb, which is more common in both lower lungs. If the fibrosis is obvious, it can make the lung volume smaller and the diaphragm move upward. Pneumothorax may complicate.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of clinical manifestations and auxiliary examinations and X-ray features.
Differential diagnosis
It should be differentiated from bronchopneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Treatment
Cellular lung syndrome is often the end-stage manifestation of the disease, which is irreversible. The treatment is mainly symptomatic, actively preventing and treating infection and spontaneous pneumothorax. If pneumothorax occurs, it is often difficult to use water-seal bottle drainage alone, and continuous negative pressure suction is needed to reopen the lung.
Prevention
Prevent cold and flu, and avoid getting cold.