Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 7, 2025
Author Spotlight: Investigating the Key Factors of Obliterative Bronchiolitis After Lung Transplantation
Published on: November 10, 2023
Anaesthetic challenges in pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis - a rare disease treated with bilateral lung
Pradeep Kumar1, Apar Jindal1, Prabhat Dutta1
1Institute of Heart, Lung and Transplantation, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare autosomal recessive end stage lung condition characterized by widespread alveolar deposition of calcium microliths. It is worth emphasis india has reported 80 cases out of 1022 cases worldwide but there is no report on lung transplant and and anaesthetic management in this category of patient. This report present the anaesthetic challenge in management of first indian patient with the diagnosis of PAM, who underwent bilateral lung transplantation. Bilateral lung transplantation is one of the most challenging surgeries that require the care of a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist. Utilization of extracorporeal circulation has allowed a safer performance of this procedure in patients with severe cardiopulmonary compromise. Intraoperative management is a pivotal part of the patient's care, as it contributes to the patient's overall outcome.
Insights
Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare lung disease. This report details the anesthetic management for the first Indian patient with PAM undergoing a bilateral lung transplant, highlighting surgical challenges.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Anesthesiology
- Transplant Surgery
Background:
- Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare, autosomal recessive end-stage lung disease.
- Characterized by diffuse alveolar deposition of calcium microliths.
- India has reported a significant number of global cases (80/1022), yet data on lung transplantation and anesthetic management is scarce.
Observation:
- This case report focuses on the first Indian patient diagnosed with PAM who underwent bilateral lung transplantation.
- The report emphasizes the anesthetic challenges encountered during the management of this rare condition.
Findings:
- Bilateral lung transplantation is a complex procedure demanding specialized cardiothoracic anesthesiologist expertise.
- The use of extracorporeal circulation can enhance surgical safety in patients with severe cardiopulmonary compromise.
Implications:
- Intraoperative management is critical for optimizing patient outcomes in complex lung transplant cases.
- This case provides valuable insights into managing PAM patients requiring lung transplantation, particularly in the Indian context.
