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High-resolution computed tomography of pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis
1Department of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan Yi Zhi
|August 12, 1999
Summary
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare lung disease. Characteristic high-resolution CT findings can help diagnose PAM, potentially avoiding lung biopsy.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is an exceptionally rare interstitial lung disease.
- The condition is predominantly reported in Turkey, with limited documented cases globally.
- This report details a unique case from Taiwan, expanding the known geographical distribution.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old Taiwanese woman presented with a 7-year history of progressive dyspnea.
- Chest radiography revealed diffuse, high-density micronodules and reticular opacities with basal predominance.
- Transbronchial lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of PAM.
Findings:
- High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) demonstrated pathognomonic findings.
- Characteristic HRCT features include a calcified reticular pattern and thickened interlobular septa.
- These findings showed a predominant basal and peripheral lung distribution, with associated subpleural air cysts and paraseptal emphysema.
Implications:
- HRCT findings are highly specific for diagnosing Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis.
- Characteristic HRCT patterns may obviate the need for lung biopsy in diagnosing PAM.
- This case broadens the geographical understanding of PAM and emphasizes the diagnostic utility of advanced imaging.