Alveolar proteinosis: case report and literature review

Alveolar proteinosis is a rare disease. Its etiology, pathology, and manifestations are becoming increasingly more apparent. Few cases have been reported, which highlights the importance of reporting this case and reviewing current literature. New therapeutic options are being introduced with adequate outcomes thereby making it possible to manage patients who were previously unresponsive to conventional treatment. 25% of cases resolve spontaneously, while most patients require conventional treatment with total lung lavage that often does not improve prognosis. The case reported in this article was associated to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and diabetes. Primary alveolar proteinosis can have a direct relationship to these concomitant conditions.