[Successful treatment of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis by massive bronchoalveolar lavage]

In two patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, PaO2 was normalized by massive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Patient 1: A 29-year-old man presented with exertional dyspnea and a PaO2 of 57.8 mmHg. After four BALs, the PaO2 was 106.4 mmHg. For ten years thereafter he has been doing well. Patient 2: A 58-year-old women presented with extertional dyspnea and a PaO2 of 64.4 mmHg. The PaO2 increased to 110.6 mmHg after four BALs. BAL required much skill, but it is one of the most effective methods for the treatment of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. Because this condition is related to an interstitial process, these two patients need to be followed carefully.