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Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis or LAM, is a rare cystic lung disease that mostly affects women in their mid-forties. In LAM, an unusual type of cell begins to grow out of control throughout the body, including in the lungs, lymph nodes and vessels, and kidneys
Prevalence
1-9/100,000
331-2,979
US Estimated
513-4,622
Europe Estimated
Age of Onset
Adult
ICD-10
D48.7
Inheritance
This condition does not appear to have a clear pattern of inheritance.
5 Facts you should know
FACT
A rare lung disease that mainly affects women, usually during their childbearing years
FACT
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) occurs in 3-8 women per million in the general population
FACT
There are 2 forms of LAM - a sporadic form, which occurs for unknown reasons, and a form that occurs in people with tuberous sclerosis complex
FACT
It typically results in cystic lung destruction
FACT
Diagnosis is typically delayed 5 to 6 years because it’s often diagnosed as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Interest over time
Google searches
Common signs and symptoms
Chest pain
Cough
Dyspnea
Pulmonary infiltrates
Current treatments
While there is currently no cure for LAM, research has led to major progress in the treatment of symptoms. Treatment options may vary from person to person depending on the severity of the disease. People with LAM should speak with their doctor about whether certain options are right for them, as well as the benefits and risks of treatment options.