Pulmonary ossification

Last revised by Yuranga Weerakkody on 17 Oct 2021

Pulmonary ossification is a rare finding and is characterized by the presence of mature bone in alveolar or interstitial spaces, either localized or disseminated throughout the lung parenchyma.

It can be idiopathic (idiopathic pulmonary ossification) or secondary to chronic lung, cardiac or systemic disorders.

At times radiologists will report this as "pulmonary calcification", but it is important to realize that this is incorrect as the abnormality is formed from bone cells.

It is thought to be a result of multiple interacting factors. Tissue injury is considered the most important provoking factor which, in an alkaline environment, initiates calcium salt precipitation, enables alkaline phosphatase activity and activates profibrogenic cytokines. Alveolar hemorrhage is responsible for an interstitial metallic deposition that attracts calcium salts and multinucleated giant cells. 

May show branching calcific densities, which are usually seen in lower parts of lungs.

Can bee seen as high attenuation parenchymal bands or foci. 

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.