[Noninvasive diagnosis of alveolar microlithiasis by Tc99m-MDP scintigraphy and alveolar lavage]. / Diagnostic non invasif de la microlithiase alvéolaire par la scintigraphie aux Tc99m-MDP et le lavage alvéolaire.

ABSTRACT

In a new case of alveolar microlithiasis we report the diagnostic value of two non-invasive examinations. In agreement with the histo-chemical date, scintigraphy with technetium shows an abnormal pulmonary fixation as evidence of the presence of intra-pulmonary calcium. The demonstration of micro-lithiasis in the alveolar lavage liquid, which requires a particular technique, confirms the diagnosis and avoids an open lung biopsy.