Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Cigarette Smoke Exposure in Mice using a Whole-Body Inhalation System
06:07

Cigarette Smoke Exposure in Mice using a Whole-Body Inhalation System

Published on: October 22, 2020

7.7K

Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis in Setting of Inhaled Toxin Exposure and Chronic Substance Abuse

Meirui Li1, Salem Alowami2, Miranda Schell2

  • 1Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.

Case Reports in Pulmonology
|April 3, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disease caused by surfactant buildup. This case highlights occupational toxins and substance abuse as potential risk factors for secondary PAP.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Toxicology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disease characterized by surfactant accumulation in alveoli.
  • It impairs gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia.
  • PAP is classified into hereditary, autoimmune, and secondary types.

Observation:

  • A case of secondary PAP in a 47-year-old man is presented.
  • Risk factors included occupational exposure to aluminum dust, anabolic steroid use, and alcohol abuse.
  • These factors may contribute to alveolar macrophage dysfunction.

Findings:

  • Alveolar macrophage dysfunction, potentially via a zinc-dependent mechanism, was observed.
  • This mechanism inhibits granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) receptor signaling.
  • This leads to the characteristic surfactant accumulation in PAP.

Implications:

  • The rarity and non-specific symptoms of PAP present diagnostic challenges.
  • Increased clinician awareness of risk factors like toxin exposure and substance abuse is crucial.
  • Prompt diagnosis facilitates timely treatment for secondary PAP.

More Related Videos

In Vivo Assessment of Alveolar Macrophage Efferocytosis Following Ozone Exposure08:54

In Vivo Assessment of Alveolar Macrophage Efferocytosis Following Ozone Exposure

Published on: October 22, 2019

9.6K
Whole-Body Nanoparticle Aerosol Inhalation Exposures10:11

Whole-Body Nanoparticle Aerosol Inhalation Exposures

Published on: May 7, 2013

16.3K

Related Concept Videos

Pulmonary Ventilation: Inhalation01:24

Pulmonary Ventilation: Inhalation

Pulmonary ventilation is a vital process that ensures the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs. It refers to the movement of air into and out of the lungs, enabling the body to obtain oxygen and remove waste carbon dioxide. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of pulmonary ventilation, including its underlying principles, mechanisms, and the interplay of pressures within the respiratory system.
Boyle's law becomes particularly pertinent when examining respiratory...
8.4K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease01:24

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD is defined as a heterogeneous lung condition marked by persistent respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and sputum production, caused by abnormalities in the airways that cause airflow obstruction.
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
2.6K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction01:20

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-lasting respiratory condition requiring continuous attention and care. It is a progressive lung disease that leads to breathing challenges due to airflow obstruction. It manifests as persistent respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow resulting from abnormalities in the airways and alveoli, usually due to long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases. COPD mainly consists of two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
3.9K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management01:29

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management

Managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) involves a multifaceted approach to reduce symptoms, prevent exacerbations, improve overall health status, and slow disease progression. Key strategies include lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, supportive therapies, and, in some cases, surgery. Here is an overview of the primary COPD management strategies:
Smoking Cessation
3.2K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology01:20

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
4.7K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management01:30

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management

Nursing management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is crucial for providing thorough care and support to patients. Nurses play an integral role in this process through detailed assessment, careful planning, targeted interventions, and ongoing evaluation. Here's an overview of the critical steps in nursing management for COPD.
Assessment
5.3K