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Pulmonary microlithiasis. Report of two cases
S Mariotta1, L Guidi, P Mattia
1Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiovascolari e Respiratorie, Università La Sapienza, Italia.
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare lung disease. This report details two familial cases, highlighting diagnostic imaging and limited treatment options like broncho-alveolar lavages.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Rare Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare condition.
- Characterized by calcispherites in lung alveoli.
- Often asymptomatic initially, progressing to fibrosis and cardiac failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two familial cases of Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis.
- To discuss diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions for PAM.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients with familial PAM.
- Diagnostic imaging: Chest X-ray and high-resolution computed tomography.
- Therapeutic interventions: Broncho-alveolar lavages (BAL) and sodium etidronate.
Main Results:
- Familial PAM diagnosed via characteristic imaging findings.
- One patient developed exertional dyspnea, cyanosis, and cough.
- BAL provided symptomatic improvement; sodium etidronate showed no change on imaging.
Conclusions:
- PAM diagnosis relies heavily on imaging.
- Broncho-alveolar lavages may offer temporary symptom relief.
- Effective long-term treatments for PAM are still under investigation.