All about lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)  causes of lymphangioleiomyomatosis symptoms of lymphangioleiomyomatosis diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis treatment for lymphangioleiomyomatosis |
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How is lymphangioleiomyomatosis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis can be difficult because many of the early symptoms are similar to those of other lung diseases. However, there are a number of tests a physician can perform to confirm or rule out the existence of LAM including chest X-ray, pulmonary function tests, blood tests, and computed tomography. Computed tomography (CT) is the most definitive imaging test for diagnosing LAM. On a CT scan, the presence of thin-walled cysts spread relatively uniformly throughout the lungs usually means LAM. An abdominal CT scan may disclose a benign kidney tumor called angiomyolipoma that is associated with lymphangioleiomyomatosis. An open lung biopsy should be performed as a last resort to diagnose LAM. Two or more manifestations (cysts, fluid in the lungs, benign kidney tumor, and collapsed lung) can give clear indications of the diganosis of LAM. |
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More information on lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)
What is lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)? - Lymphangioleiomyomatosis is a rare disorder of unknown etiology characterized by an unusual type of muscle cell that invades the tissues of the lungs.
What causes lymphangioleiomyomatosis? - Lymphangioleiomyomatosis can occur in association with tuberous sclerosis due to mutations in the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) genes.
What're the symptoms of lymphangioleiomyomatosis? - Symptoms of lymphangioleiomyomatosis may include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and coughing.
How is lymphangioleiomyomatosis diagnosed? - The diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis can be difficult because the early symptoms are similar to those of other lung diseases.
What's the treatment for lymphangioleiomyomatosis? - Therapeutic treatments for lymphangioleiomyomatosis have focused on reducing the production or effects of estrogen. |
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