The Foggy Lungs: A Case Report on Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare interstitial lung disease characterized by macrophage dysfunction leading to the accumulation of surfactant in the alveoli and bronchiolar spaces, leading to impaired gas exchange and severe hypoxemia. The underlying mechanisms of PAP are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve impaired clearance of surfactant and abnormal immune responses. Diagnosis of PAP typically involves imaging studies and bronchoscopy, and treatment options include whole-lung lavage, pharmacotherapy, and lung transplantation. We report PAP in a 56-year-old female who worked in a dental office and had no prior diagnosis of lung disease.