Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis

Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disease characterized by the accumulation of protein and lipid material, called surfactant, within the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs). This accumulation impairs gas exchange and leads to difficulty in breathing. The pronunciation of Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis is /pʌlˈmɒnəri ælˈviːələr ˌprəʊtɪˈnəʊsɪs/.

Etymology

The term "Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis" is derived from the Latin pulmo (lung), alveolus (small hollow or cavity), and the Greek proteinos (primary) and -osis (condition or disease).

Symptoms

The symptoms of Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis may include shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure.

Causes

The exact cause of Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis is unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with impaired macrophage function, a type of white blood cell that ingests and breaks down the surfactant in the lungs.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis typically involves a combination of imaging studies, such as chest X-ray or CT scan, and lung biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment for Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis may include whole lung lavage, a procedure to wash out the accumulated material from the lungs, and medication to stimulate the immune system.

Related Terms

• Alveoli
• Surfactant
• Macrophage
• Chest X-ray
• CT scan
• Lung biopsy
• Whole lung lavage

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
• Wikipedia's article - Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis

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