Medical Case Reports

The Dilemmas of Treating Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications: A Case Report

Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disorder. We found this condition in a 53 year old male with no particular occupational or dust exposure. He presented with acute onset breathlessness and a low grade fever for three weeks. High resolution computed tomography chest (HRCT) showed bilateral "crazy Paving" pattern suggestive of alveolar proteinosis. Broncho alveolar lavage showed eosinophilic granular material, which was periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) positive. We applied the use of bilateral whole lung lavage [dependent lungs in two different sittings] under general anesthesia as is considered gold standard in these cases. After the intervention we were successful in easing the patient of his symptoms and improving oxygenation on discharge.

Author(s):

Sivaresmi Unnithan and Ranjan K Das

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