The radiologic spectrum of cardiopulmonary amyloidosis

Abstract

Amyloidosis, either primary or related to other pathologic states, may mimic a variety of disorders and produce a multitude of appearances demonstrable on radiographic examinations of the chest. All intrathoracic tissues and organs may be affected, but the major abnormalities most commonly involve the heart and lungs. The radiographic appearances in ten patients are described and correlated with the underlying gross and microscopic pathologic findings. No specific pattern of pulmonary involvement could be determined, aside from tracheobronchial amyloidosis. The final diagnosis is dependent upon the awareness of the clinical and radiologic spectrum and the final microscopic examination of involved tissue.