Bronchiolitis Obliterans or Popcorn Lung

Bronchiolitis obliterans (also referred to as “popcorn lung disease” of “flavoring-related lung disease”) is an extremely serious, non-reversible, and obstructive lung disease in which the bronchioles of the lungs are blocked by the growth of fibrous tissue. This causes inflammation in the lungs and results in scarring and hardening of the tissue and obstruction of the airway. Considered to be a “flavorings-related” condition, bronchiolitis obliterans is caused by the inhalation of airborne diacetyl.  The chemical’s vapor is considered “hazardous” by OSHA. 

Bronchiolitis Obliterans or “Popcorn Lung Disease”

Bronchiolitis obliterans is often referred to in the media as “Popcorn Lung” because it was first widely reported in workers in popcorn manufacturing plants. This name is now a misnomer since bronchiolitis obliterans has also been diagnosed in workers of coffee plants, animal feed plants, bakeries, candy factories, tortilla manufacturers and other facilities using flavorings in the production of the end product.

TruLaw is talking to individuals diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans who may qualify for diacetyl lawsuits.

What Causes Bronchiolitis Obliterans (Popcorn Lung)?

Diacetyl, a chemical used to provide butter flavor in many foods and commonly used in e-cigarette flavoring, has been shown to cause bronchiolitis obliterans in workers who manufacture it or mix it into foods.

What are the Symptoms of Bronchiolitis Obliterans (Popcorn Lung)?

Bronchiolitis obliterans usually causes a dry cough and shortness of breath, especially on exertion, two to eight weeks after toxic fume exposure or a respiratory illness. It may be several months or years until it presents itself after a transplant.

Fatigue and wheezing in the absence of a cold or asthma are other symptoms of this lung disease.

Misdiagnosis of Bronchiolitis Obliterans

Bronchiolitis obliterans is difficult to diagnose and to treat and it can take months to years for symptoms of lung damage to form after diacetyl fume exposure. Chest x-rays and CT scans are part of the diagnostic process, but neither is conclusive.  \An open lung biopsy is required in order to make a definitive diagnosis, meaning that a portion of the lung must be removed and studied.

Although bronchiolitis obliterans is not reversible, there are treatment options. Steroids can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms, and studies have shown that inhaled cyclosporine can increase the amount of air that is exhaled, which can decrease trapped air and provide better lung capacity to bronchiolitis obliterans victims.