Postinflammatory Tumor (Xanthoma) of Lung

An example of a solitary postinflammatory tumor of the lung histiologically comprised of lipid-laden macrophages and lesser numbers of other inflammatory cells and collagenization is presented. The clinical as well as histologic features of seven other previously recorded cases are reviewed. It is considered that such lesions represent a response to inflammation rather than true neoplasm, lipid deposit resulting from a metabolic disorder or a "xanthomatous degeneration" of a primary lung tumor. The recognition of this unusual and rare type of pulmonary nodule appears imperative if errors in diagnosis and consequently treatment are to be avoided.