Role of physical therapy in management of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. A case report.

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is a rare disease in which alveoli are filled with a lipoproteinaceous material. Treatment of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis by whole-lung lavage demands the full participation of a skilled team including a physical therapist to ensure the reversal of the patients' symptoms and pulmonary function abnormalities. This case report illustrates the role of physical therapy in management of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.