PULMONARY ALVEOLAR LIPOPROTEINOSIS: CASE REPORT

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594802427084

• Palavras-chave: Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis; Pulmonary alveolar lipoproteinosis; Lung lavage.

• Keywords: Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis; Pulmonary alveolar lipoproteinosis; Lung lavage.

• Abstract:

  Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is described as a rare disease, characterized by the accumulation of pulmonary surfactant, composed of glycoproteins and lipids, in the alveoli. As a result of this accumulation, the individual may experience everything from dyspnea and hypoxemia to opportunistic infections. The basis of the pathology are disorders of surfactant homeostasis, which can be classified as Primary, Secondary or Congenital etiology. Regardless of the origin, in adults, the main treatment is total lung lavage (TPL). In addition to being the most widespread, lowest-cost and most accessible treatment option, it is capable of bringing immediate relief to the patient's symptoms.Objective: To report the case of a patient undergoing lung lavage at Messejana Hospital, for the treatment of dyspnea. Methods: Retrospective and descriptive report, using data from medical records, imaging exams and photographic records of the procedure, in addition to a literature review in PubMed databases, covering publications from 2019 to 2024. Results: A 25-year-old man was diagnosed with PAP after chest x-ray revealing bilateral infiltrates. After two years, he developed progressive symptoms, including dyspnea and persistent cough, leading to whole lung lavage (LPT) being performed twice, resulting in immediate improvement in symptoms. Final considerations: LPT is effective in symptomatic relief of PAP. A multidisciplinary approach and close monitoring are necessary for better recovery.