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Pulmonary manifestations and management of proteus syndrome
Chia-Ying Li1, Yih-Leong Chang, Wei-Chou Chen
1Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Proteus syndrome is a very rare, sporadic and congenital condition that is characterized by postnatal mosaic overgrowth. This disorder is thought to be caused by a somatic gene mutation, but the exact etiology is unknown. Commonly involved tissues include connective tissue, bone, skin and the central nervous system. Another less common symptom involves pulmonary emphysematous changes. This report documents a 25-year-old man with Proteus syndrome who presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and asymmetric overgrowth of his extremities. He underwent left pneumonectomy and his postoperative course was uneventful. Lung tissue showed emphysematous changes with multiple bulla formation and scattered calcification. We also review recent literature related to pulmonary manifestations and management of Proteus syndrome.
Insights
Proteus syndrome, a rare congenital overgrowth disorder, can cause lung issues like emphysema. This case highlights a patient
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Pulmonology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Proteus syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterized by mosaic overgrowth.
- Its etiology is linked to somatic gene mutations, though exact causes remain unknown.
- Commonly affected tissues include skin, bone, connective tissue, and the central nervous system.
Observation:
- A 25-year-old male patient with Proteus syndrome presented with progressive dyspnea on exertion.
- He also exhibited asymmetric overgrowth of his extremities.
- Pulmonary examination revealed emphysematous changes, including bulla formation and calcification.
Findings:
- The patient underwent a successful left pneumonectomy.
- Postoperative recovery was uneventful.
- Histopathological analysis of lung tissue confirmed emphysematous changes with bullae and calcification.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing pulmonary manifestations in Proteus syndrome.
- Early diagnosis and management of respiratory complications are crucial for patient outcomes.
- Further research into the pulmonary aspects of Proteus syndrome is warranted.
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