Proteinaceous Lung With COVID-19: The Mimicker

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) involves surfactant deposition in alveoli, impairing gas exchange.
• COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents as atypical viral pneumonia with a wide spectrum of illness severity.
• Radiological findings in both PAP and COVID-19 can overlap, including ground-glass opacities and consolidation.

Observation:

• A known case of autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis presented with acute exacerbation.
• The patient also tested positive for COVID-19 during this exacerbation.
• Clinical, laboratory, and radiological parameters were systematically assessed.

Findings:

• Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis shares radiological similarities with COVID-19 pneumonia.
• Differentiating PAP from COVID-19 is essential for appropriate therapeutic interventions.
• This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by overlapping clinical and imaging features.

Implications:

• Accurate differentiation between PAP and COVID-19 is critical for guiding treatment decisions.
• A systematic diagnostic approach aids in managing patients with co-existing or mimicking respiratory conditions.
• Understanding these overlaps improves clinical recognition and patient outcomes in respiratory medicine.