Paraquat-induced lung disease
Paraquat-induced lung disease is a potential consequence of ingestion of the non-selective herbicidal agent paraquat (also known as N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride).
Radiographic features
Generally, there is temporal progression from ground glass opacities, to air space consolidation, and finally to fibrosis.
CT
Changes usually begin with ground-glass opacities, which can then lead to consolidation with bronchiectasis or irregular lines .
Some patients may also develop a pneumomediastinum +/- pneumothorax .
Focal honeycombing can occur after a few weeks. In patients who survive longer, later imaging (i.e. months) may show areas of localized fibrosis containing small cysts .
Treatment and prognosis
Once there is lung disease, the condition is thought to carry a very poor prognosis, with the majority inexorably progressing to end-stage respiratory failure .
See also
