skip to main content

NEHI — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRespiratoryNEHIRACP Paediatrics

A 6-month-old term infant has persistent tachypnoea, crackles, and hypoxia since 2 months of age. Growth is faltering. CXR shows hyperinflation with ground-glass opacities predominantly in the right middle lobe and lingula. Infection workup is negative. The infant has no response to bronchodilators or corticosteroids. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI)

NEHI (neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy) is the most common childhood ILD in infants presenting after 2 months. It characteristically shows ground-glass opacities in the right middle lobe and lingula on CT. It has a relatively good prognosis with gradual improvement over years, though supplemental oxygen may be needed. Lung biopsy shows increased pulmonary neuroendocrine cells.

Reference: RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Respiratory; RCH Melbourne – 2023