Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2025
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Alveolar Microlithiasis with Mild Clinical Symptoms But Severe Imaging Findings: A Case Report
Saeed Hoseininia1, Maryam Salimi2, Asma Salmani2
1Department of Internal Medicine (Pulmonary Division), School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
Abstract:
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare genetic disorder that causes calcium phosphate microliths to form in the alveoli. Symptoms usually appear in a person's third or fourth decade of life. A definitive diagnosis does not always demand a lung biopsy but can be achieved in families with more than one member with PAM and compatible chest imaging. We present the case of a 47-year-old woman referred to us for shortness of breath. Chest imaging revealed bilateral diffuse ground-glass opacities, interlobar fissure calcification, and subpleural linear calcifications, leading to a diagnosis of PAM. Although there is no specific treatment for this condition, early diagnosis can help prevent it from progressing rapidly by avoiding exposure to risk factors.
Insights
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare genetic lung disease. Early diagnosis via imaging in families aids management by preventing rapid progression.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Genetics
- Radiology
Background:
- Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by calcium phosphate microliths in the lung alveoli.
- Symptoms typically manifest in the third or fourth decade of life, presenting challenges in early identification.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman presented with shortness of breath.
- Chest imaging revealed characteristic findings: bilateral diffuse ground-glass opacities, interlobar fissure calcification, and subpleural linear calcifications.
Findings:
- The imaging findings, combined with family history, supported a diagnosis of Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis.
- A lung biopsy is not always necessary for definitive diagnosis in familial cases with compatible imaging.
Implications:
- While no specific cure exists for PAM, early diagnosis is crucial.
- Preventing exposure to risk factors can help slow the progression of this rare lung disease.
