Une maladie pulmonaire rare, la DIPNECH, touche les femmes de plus de 60 ans souffrant de toux chronique

A comprehensive French review examines diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia (DIPNECH), a rare but increasingly recognized lung disease that could impact healthy aging in older women. This condition matters because it often goes undiagnosed for years, potentially leading to progressive respiratory decline.

DIPNECH primarily affects women over 60, presenting with chronic cough and breathing difficulties that mimic more common conditions. The disease involves abnormal growth of specialized cells in the lungs that produce hormones, leading to airway narrowing and nodule formation throughout both lungs.

Diagnosis relies on characteristic CT scan findings showing multiple small nodules and signs of small airway disease, combined with tissue examination revealing neuroendocrine cell overgrowth. Pulmonary function tests typically show airway obstruction similar to asthma or COPD.

Currently, no standardized treatment protocols exist for DIPNECH. The authors highlight potential therapies including mTOR pathway inhibitors and somatostatin analogs, but these require validation through clinical trials. Without treatment, some patients may develop chronic respiratory failure or associated tumors.

The clinical implications are significant for longevity-focused healthcare. Middle-aged and older women with persistent cough should be evaluated for this condition, especially when standard treatments fail. Early recognition could prevent progression to more severe respiratory compromise that impacts quality of life and healthspan. Regular monitoring with lung function tests and imaging is essential once diagnosed.