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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
04:44
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis with calcified pleural plaques
Balbir Malhotra1, Raghu Sabharwal, Mandeep Singh
1Department of Chest and TB, Government Medical College Amritsar, India.
Lung India : Official Organ of Indian Chest Society
|December 9, 2010
Summary
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare lung disease. Diagnosis involves characteristic findings on chest X-ray, high-resolution CT, and lung biopsy, often showing fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is an exceptionally rare interstitial lung disease.
- Characterized by the diffuse accumulation of calcium phosphate microliths within the alveoli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a confirmed case of pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of imaging and biopsy in identifying this rare condition.
Main Methods:
- Initial suspicion raised by chest X-ray findings.
- Confirmation through high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan.
- Definitive diagnosis established via transbronchial lung biopsy.
Main Results:
- Imaging revealed diffuse interstitial changes consistent with PAM.
- Transbronchial biopsy confirmed the presence of microliths.
- Associated diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis was noted.
Conclusions:
- High-resolution CT and lung biopsy are crucial for diagnosing pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis.
- The case underscores the importance of integrating imaging and histopathology for rare lung diseases.
- Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis can present with diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis.
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