Purpose or Case Report:
This case series will present a pictorial review of common and rare differentials for cystic lung pathology in the paediatric population, with cases taken from our tertiary paediatric institution.
Cystic lung lesions in children can present a diagnostic challenge due to a wide variety of potential aetiologies. Our review includes rarer pathologies such as our highlighted case of kerosene ingestion, where clinical history was crucial in establishing a diagnosis, and an atypical bilateral pleuropulmonary blastoma giving the appearance of a more diffuse process. These are presented alongside more commonly seen pathologies such as congenital pulmonary airway malformations, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, ChILD, and post infective sequelae. We present the clinical and radiological findings of these pathologies, with some histopathological correlation, highlighting the typical radiographic features of both these key differentials for cystic lung lesions, as well as rare differentials to consider in difficult cases. Multiple imaging modalities, including computed tomography and plain radiography, as well as multi-disciplinary discussion played a crucial role in establishing accurate diagnoses.
Understanding the clinical presentation in children with cystic lung pathology is crucial in correct diagnosis, and rare differentials must be considered in correlation with clinical history when evaluating cystic lung lesions. In the paediatric population, accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for starting appropriate management, excluding potentially malignant pathologies, and improving outcomes.
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