Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Causes
The disease can be an offset of other respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and infections. It can also be due to inhaling harmful dust and chemicals that are spread in the environment. Excessive smoking can also be a risk factor.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Definition
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is a lung disease where the abnormal accumulation of surfactants inside the alveoli interfere with respiration. The disease can occur with respect to other diseases such as pulmonary infection, myeloid leukemia and exposure to harmful chemicals.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Diagnosis
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is observed via chest x-rays, surgical and endoscopic biopsies of the lung.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Symptoms and Signs
Among the symptoms of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis are shortness of breath, coughing, weight loss and low grade fever.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Treatment
The disease is treated by performing a whole-lung lavage procedure, where sterile fluid is instilled into the lungs to bring out the surfactants. This has been effective in treating the disease. Lung transplant is also performed in severe cases.