Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis: a rare case report from Syria

Abstract

Introduction and importance: This report presents a case of pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM), a rare disease characterized by dry cough, dyspnea, and chest pain. Most reported cases are from Turkey, with a frequency of 1.85 in 1 million, and there are no documented cases from Syria in the medical literature. Here, we present the first case report from Syria. Case presentation: A 56-year-old male patient complained of a dry cough that began 4 years ago and had worsened over the last 3 months, along with a grade I dyspnea. Chest radiograph showed a ‘sandstorm-like’ appearance, and a computed tomography scan revealed diffuse ground-glass opacities. To confirm the diagnosis, we performed a transbronchial lung biopsy and bronchial washing. Histopathology results revealed interalveolar calcification consistent with PAM. The diagnosis was based on radiological and lung biopsy findings. The patient received oxygen therapy, resulting in significant improvement. We recommended the use of a home oxygen machine for episodes of shortness of breath. Clinical discussion: PAM is an autosomal recessive disease caused by a mutation in the SLC34A2 gene (solute carrier family 34, member 2 gene), characterized by intra-alveolar airspace microliths called calcospherites. Miliary tuberculosis should be considered a differential diagnosis. Conclusions: The disease progresses slowly and is often diagnosed incidentally. Lung transplantation remains the only effective treatment.