As a medical professional with expertise in respiratory diseases, I can explain the causes of Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia (BOOP), which is also known as Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP) when the cause is unknown. BOOP is characterized by the inflammation and scarring of the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing. The condition can be triggered by a variety of factors: 1. Infections: Viral and occasionally bacterial infections are known to cause BOOP. These infections can lead to an inflammatory response that results in the formation of granulation tissue within the lungs. 2. Drugs: Certain medications, including some chemotherapy drugs, can cause a reaction in the lungs that results in BOOP. This is considered a side effect of the medication. 3. Medical Conditions: BOOP has been associated with connective tissue diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It can also occur in the context of other lung diseases or after lung injury. 4. Idiopathic Causes: In many cases, the cause of BOOP is not identified, and the condition is then referred to as idiopathic or cryptogenic. This means that the specific trigger for the inflammation and scarring in the lungs is unknown. It's important to note that BOOP is a serious condition that requires medical attention. Treatment typically involves corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and may include additional medications depending on the severity and underlying cause. read more >>

BOOP can be caused by viral infections, various drugs, and other medical conditions. If the cause is known, the condition is called secondary BOOP. In many cases, the underlying cause of BOOP is unknown. These cases are called idiopathic BOOP or cryptogenic organizing pneumonia.read more >>