Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Methods for Detecting Cytotoxic Amyloids Following Infection of Pulmonary Endothelial Cells by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Published on: July 12, 2018
[Pseudotumoral pulmonary AL amyloidosis]
M Cappiello1, E Pagano1, T Vandemoortele1
1Service d'oncologie thoracique, maladies de la plèvre, pneumologie interventionnelle, CHU Hôpital Nord, chemin des Bourrely, 13915 Marseille cedex 20, France.
Introduction:
Thoracic involvement in amyloidosis is rare. An isolated pseudotumor without extra-thoracic disease suggests a malignant process. We present the case of a patient with pseudonodular AL amyloidosis, confirmed by lobar lung resection.
Case Report:
A 57-year-old woman, with a 25-pack-year smoking history, presented with a nodular opacity on chest x-ray. Physical examination was normal. Thoracic CT-scan revealed an isolated spiculated nodule in the right upper lobe. A whole body positron emission tomography (PET) scan revealed high FDG activity in this nodule, without evidence of metastatic disease. Bronchoscopy was negative. Lobectomy revealed lambda L-chain amyloidosis. Investigation for systemic extension was negative. Follow up has been unremarkable.
Conclusion:
A spiculated lung nodule on conventional imaging (radiography, scanner) is cancer until proven otherwise. The use of PET scan in this context is sensitive but not specific. Definitive diagnosis must be obtained by histological examination. Nodular lung amyloidosis must be included in the differential diagnosis of lung nodules and false-positive FDG PET.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Amyloid Fibrils
Amyloid Fibrils
Amyloid deposits were observed as early as 1639 in the liver and the spleen. In 1854, Rudolph Virchow performed iodine staining,...
Atypical Pneumonia
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...

