LAM: A mimic of asthma and COPD in women

Pulmonary lymphangiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare, progressive lung disease that affects women of childbearing age and may be mistaken for asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Characteristic features include slowly worsening dyspnea, cough, chest pain, hemoptysis, recurrent pneumothoraces, and chylothorax. Auscultation of the lungs does not typically reveal crackles or wheezes. Pulmonary function tests usually show an obstructive defect and reduced carbon monoxide-diffusing capacity. Diffuse cystic changes are detected in the lung by high-resolution CT. LAM is frequently associated with renal angiomyolipomas and may occur in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. Hormonal therapy is indicated for patients who have symptomatic or progressive disease.