Autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis mimicking Mycoplasma pneumonia in an adolescent. (2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meka, Shaiva Ginoya; Mohr, Madison; Nair, Girish Balachandran; Salman, Bassel A.
• Is Part Of: Respiratory medicine case reports. Volume 30(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020
• Subjects: Autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis -- Crazy paving pattern; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory Tract Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory System -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases; Respiratory organs -- Diseases; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2020.101100
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2213-0071

Abstract

Abstract: Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disease of abnormal surfactant production and accumulation. It is typically divided into three main categories: autoimmune, secondary and genetic. The genetic type is more common in children and adolescents, while the autoimmune type is most commonly seen in adults. Here we present an unusual case of autoimmune PAP presenting in an adolescent by mimicking findings of Mycoplasma pneumonia. Although both PAP and Mycoplasma pneumonia may reveal the same findings of the "crazy paving pattern" on computed tomography imaging, it is imperative to distinguish the two as treatment options are dissimilar. Highlights: Consider pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in adolescents with "crazy paving" pattern on imaging. Delayed diagnosis due to infectious mimickers is common in the young age group. Autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis requires timely diagnosis.