CT showed multiple pulmonary balloon lesions with intermediate balloon calcification in a case of nodular pulmonary amyloidosis: A case report

RATIONALE: Amyloidosis is a rare disease characterized by the misfolding of autologous proteins and extracellular deposition of fibrils, which can involve 1 or more vital organs in the body. Nodular pulmonary amyloidosis with extensive pulmonary cysts is even less common. This study discusses the diagnosis and treatment of a case of pulmonary nodular amyloidosis with extensive pulmonary cysts and calcification in the middle of the cysts on chest computed tomography, and reviews the related literature. We hope that this rare case will raise awareness of this disease among clinicians. PATIENT CONCERNS: Multiple pulmonary nodules and cysts were found on computed tomography of the chest, and the patient was eager to further clarify the nature of the nodules and the next treatment plan. DIAGNOSES: Amyloidosis of pulmonary nodules. INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES: Since the patient’s primary lesion was outside the bronchial lumen near the hilum, we opted for endobronchial ultrasound-guided tunnel biopsy to obtain pathological specimens, and confirmed the diagnosis of nodular pulmonary amyloidosis. After a definite diagnosis, the patient was regularly followed without any specific treatment. LESSONS: For patients with multiple pulmonary nodules combined with extensive pulmonary cysts, we also need to be alert to the possibility of pulmonary nodule amyloidosis. Secondly, when the main lesion is located outside the bronchial cavity near the hilum of the lung, the method of pathological tissue biopsy should also consider endobronchial ultrasound-guided tunnel biopsy.