Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia relapses in 25 to 50% of patients.
Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia.
Michael Z Root, Joyce S Lee
Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine · Aug 2026
Background
Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (cryptogenic organizing pneumonia), formerly called bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia), was first described in the 1980s and is classified as a rare idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (interstitial pneumonia).
Results
about a third to half of patients relapse, usually while tapering or stopping steroids
25%
Relapse rate low
50%
Relapse rate high
More results
Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia classically presents in a subacute fashion following a flu-like illness with fever, non-productive cough, and fatigue.
Physical examination may be normal or reveal inspiratory crackles.
More results
A defining feature of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia is steroid-responsiveness, and most experts recommend prolonged corticosteroid courses (6-12 months).
Response to corticosteroids and prognosis are typically excellent.
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Conclusion
Further study is needed to define optimal corticosteroid dose and duration.