PULMONARY ALVEOLAR MICROLITHIASIS IN A SAUDI CHILD AND 2 COUSINS

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis is a rare disease and only 32 cases have been reported in children under 12 years of age. The first report on Saudi children with this disorder and on affected cousins is prese nted, supporting the possible hypothesis of it being an autosomal rece ssive disorder. The importance of differentiating it from other condit ions, particularly pulmonary tuberculosis, and the current approach to diagnosis and management are discussed.