Treatment of pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis with a diphosphonate--preliminary results of a case

Respiration. 1992;59(4):250-2. doi: 10.1159/000196068.

Abstract

A diphosphonate, disodium etidronate, a compound known to inhibit microcrystal growth of hydroxyapatite was given to a 3.5-year-old girl with pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) that was symptomatic. The drug was used for approximately 36 months in a single daily dose of 15 mg/kg. No significant side effects were encountered with somewhat clearing of lung bases in chest radiograms and subjective improvement in general condition. These findings suggest a role of diphosphonates in the treatment of PAM.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Calcinosis / drug therapy
  • Calculi / drug therapy*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Etidronic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Pulmonary Alveoli
  • Respiratory Function Tests

Substances

  • Etidronic Acid