Popcorn lung is the common name for occlusive bronchitis (BO). It is a rare, but serious and irreversible lung disease. It can be caused by inhalation of certain chemicals, including diacetyl. This condition first became known to the public when workers in a popcorn factory developed it. They inhaled diacetyl while making the buttery flavor for the popcorn.

Causes

There are many possible causes of popcorn lung, including respiratory infections, connective tissue disorder, transplant rejection, etc. Of these, chemicals such as diacetyl are common causes.

Diacetyl is a chemical commonly used to add a buttery flavor to microwave popcorn. When breathed in, diacetyl can damage the smallest airways in the lungs (bronchioles), causing inflammation and scarring. This can lead to narrowing and obstruction of the airways, making breathing difficult. Other chemicals such as acetaldehyde, acrolein and formaldehyde can also cause such lung damage when inhaled.

Symptoms

Common symptons of popcorn lung are a dry cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and fatigue.

These symptoms may not appear gradually until 2 to 8 weeks after infection or toxic exposure. They can sometimes be mistaken for a cold in the early days; unlike a cold, popcorn lung does not improve, but worsens over time.

However, sometimes severe symptoms may also appear suddenly, rather than gradually.

Diagnosis

Popcorn lung is often diagnosed on the basis of its symptoms. This can be a challenge as the symptoms may be similar to other lung diseases such as flu, pneumoconiosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, if a patient has a history of exposure to diacetyl or other toxic chemicals, a doctor may suspect popcorn lung.

A number of tests are often needed to diagnose popcorn lung, including lung function tests, chest X-rays and CT scans. A lung biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis if necessary.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for popcorn lung, and treatment can help manage the symptoms and slow further progression. This may include the use of bronchodilators, corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs. Oxygen therapy is often needed when there is difficulty breathing (hypoxemia). Anti-infectives may be offered in cases of infection. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be necessary.

The disease is not reversible, and the outcome is often not promising. That is why early detection is essential. If it is caused by inhaling diacetyl or other toxic chemicals, it is also essential to remove exposure to it.

Vaping

The link between vaping and popcorn lung is not yet fully known. There is persistent concern, however, that flavored e-cigarettes may expose users to toxic chemicals. Studies have found in e-cigarettes diacetyl, acetaldehyde, acrolein, formaldehyde, diethylene glycol, etc. These chemicals, when inhaled, can lead to a variety of potential lung damage over time.

The long-term consequences of vaping are mostly unclear, and additional study is required to properly understand the risks of e-cigarette usage. Yet, some studies have shown that vaping may raise the chance of developing lung illness, with popcorn lung among them. It is important to find out the possible risks of vaping and to take precautions to reduce exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.

Summary

Popcorn lung is serious and incurable. It can be caused by the inhalation of certain chemicals, including diacetyl. The link between vaping and the disease is not yet fully known. Early detection and removal from exposure to the harmful chemical that caused the disease is essential. If symptoms of popcorn lung or other lung diseases develop, it is advisable to seek early medical attention and discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider.