Pulmonary amyloidosis - abstract

ABSTRACT

Amyloidosis is a chronic disorder, characterized by accumulation of a fibrillar protein in the various organ systems, including the respiratory tract. Amyloid localized entirely to the respiratory tract is, however, a rare finding. Involvement of the airways (trachea and bronchi) leads to signs and symptoms of airway obstruction. Parenchymal amyloid occurs in two forms, diffuse and nodular, with the latter having a more benign natural history and a better prognosis. This disorder must be considered in the differential diagnosis and work-up of a solitary pulmonary nodule (AU)