[Alveolar proteinosis. Prolonged favorable course after total pulmonary lavage]

We report the outcome in a case of alveolar proteinosis diagnosed histologically in a 43 year old female. The increase in dyspnoea and the deterioration in the pulmonary function tests have lead to the realisation that a total pulmonary lavage was required under general anaesthesia. This was performed in two stages. A biochemical analysis of the lavage liquid showed an accumulation of phospholipids, proteins, and LDH. A subjective improvement was obtained in a few weeks followed by a slow radiological improvement as well as on CT scanning, and in respiratory function. Radiological and blood gas improvement was noted 19 months after total bilateral pulmonary lavage. Broncho-alveolar lavage is thus able to induce long-term improvement in pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.