High resolution computed tomograghy features in pulmonary alveolar proteinosis before and after whole lung lavage therapy
Objective: To study high resolution computed tomograghy (HRCT) features and changes of HRCT after whole lung lavage therapy in patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP).
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the HRCT data of 23 times of lung lavage therapy in 16 PAP patients.
Results: HRCT scan showed bilateral clearly-defined patchy areas of ground-glass opacity and interlobular septal thickening, a pattern commonly characterized as "crazy paving". After whole lung lavage therapy, HRCT showed that the diffused ground-glass opacity palliated and the extent of lung opacity shrinked, while the reticular opacity and area of confluence persisted.
Conclusions: The HRCT feature of PAP is relatively characteristic, and may be improved after whole lung lavage therapy.