Alveolar lung disease

Overview of alveolar lung disease

Overview

Diagram of an alveolus, the basic unit affected in alveolar lung disease.

Alveolar lung disease refers to a group of disorders that primarily affect the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. These diseases can lead to impaired gas exchange and respiratory distress.

Pathophysiology

The alveoli are crucial for efficient gas exchange in the lungs. In alveolar lung disease, the structure or function of the alveoli is compromised. This can occur due to inflammation, infection, or accumulation of fluid or other substances within the alveoli. The disruption of normal alveolar function can lead to decreased oxygenation of the blood and increased levels of carbon dioxide.

Types of Alveolar Lung Disease

Alveolar lung diseases can be classified into several types based on their etiology:

Infectious

• Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus.

Non-infectious

• Pulmonary edema: A condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs, often due to heart problems.
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): A severe condition characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs.
• Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: A rare lung disease characterized by the accumulation of proteinaceous material in the alveoli.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of alveolar lung disease include:

• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Cough
• Hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels)
• Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of alveolar lung disease typically involves:

• Chest X-ray or CT scan: Imaging studies to visualize the lungs.
• Pulmonary function tests: To assess the functional capacity of the lungs.
• Bronchoscopy: A procedure to look inside the lung airways and collect samples.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the alveolar lung disease:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• Oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygen levels.
• Mechanical ventilation in severe cases to support breathing.

Prognosis

The prognosis of alveolar lung disease varies widely depending on the specific condition and its severity. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.

Related pages

• Respiratory system
• Lung disease
• Pulmonary function test