DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2026.v12i05.020

Pages: 473-482

Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) is an uncommon interstitial lung disease characterized by heterogeneous clinical and radiological features, often leading to diagnostic challenges. We report the case of a 64-year-old patient presenting with exertional dyspnea and initial computed tomography findings suggestive of pulmonary infection. Follow-up imaging demonstrated a characteristic migratory pattern of pulmonary lesions, combining ground-glass opacities and bilateral consolidations with temporal fluctuation. The absence of identifiable infectious, neoplastic, or systemic causes, together with the migratory nature of the lesions, supported the diagnosis of organizing pneumonia of cryptogenic origin. Initiation of corticosteroid therapy resulted in rapid clinical improvement and complete radiological resolution. This case underscores the pivotal role of serial imaging in identifying lesion migration, a key feature suggestive of COP. It also highlights the importance of thoroughly excluding secondary causes before establishing the diagnosis. Early recognition and appropriate management are generally associated with a favorable prognosis.