Diffuse Alveolar Disease
Radiological Signs
Useful Clinical Classification
Distribution
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Acute Diffuse Alveolar Disease
Chronic Alveolar Disease
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General
Cannot tell whether there is co-existent interstitial disease.
Alveolar and interstitial pattern can be evident in different portions of the lung and is of diagnostic significance.
Evolution of x-rays changes is helpful in the diagnosis.
None of the x-ray findings are specific.
History and clinical setting under which the problem is encountered is of great help in diagnosis.
Presence of co-existing findings helpful, e.g., lympadenopathy, etc.
Options for a diagnostic procedure is based on the working diagnosis: Sputum evaluation, HRCT, bronchoalveolar lavage, brushings, TBB, open lung biopsy, VAT lung biopsy, CBC, ID workup, auto-immune workup and cardiac workup .