Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: Diagnosis in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Liquid-Based Cytology Samples

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH) is a rare interstitial lung disease characterized by the accumulation of Langerhans cells within the lung tissue. The diagnosis of PLCH traditionally involves clinical, radiological, and lung biopsy histopathological evaluations. <b><i>Case Presentation:</i></b> We present 2 cases where the diagnosis of PLCH was confirmed through the analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid cytology using immunoperoxidase technique, highlighting the significance of this minimally invasive technique in the diagnostic process. Clinical and radiological examination suggested advanced interstitial lung disease characterized by a fibrocystic pattern in both cases. The cytologic analysis of the BAL fluid revealed typical histiocytes with longitudinal grooves and eosinophils, which was better seen on liquid-based cytology (LBC) smears. ICC with CD1a, Langerin, and S-100 confirmed the diagnosis of PLCH. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Detecting PLCH through the examination of BAL cytology poses challenges, yet it is achievable, particularly with the assistance of LBC and ICC.