Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis

Can Respir J. 2016:2016:4938632. doi: 10.1155/2016/4938632. Epub 2016 Mar 31.

Abstract

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare autosomal recessive condition that is often asymptomatic despite significant changes in chest imaging. Diagnosis is often made when patients become symptomatic in adulthood. There are still no proven treatments, but earlier diagnosis may allow for evaluation of preventative strategies that could improve outcome. It is an important diagnosis to consider in children who have marked radiographic findings with no or very mild symptoms or physical findings. Diagnosis can be made with imaging alone but may necessitate lung biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Calcinosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Calcinosis / pathology
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn / diagnostic imaging*
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lung / pathology
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Diseases / pathology
  • Radiography, Thoracic*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Supplementary concepts

  • Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis