Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis

Alternative names:

alveolar proteinosis

Treatment:

Treatment consist of periodic whole-lung lavage, a washing out of the phospholipids from the lung.

Expectations (prognosis):

Spontaneous remission occurs in some, while progressive respiratory failure develops in others.

Complications:

• respiratory failure including adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms develop. Progressive worsening of shortness of breath indicates that an urgent or emergency condition may be developing.