The changing face of a rare disease: lymphangioleiomyomatosis

Eur Respir J. 2015 Nov;46(5):1471-85. doi: 10.1183/13993003.00412-2015. Epub 2015 Sep 24.

Abstract

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis is a rare disease characterised by cystic destruction of the lung, lymphatic abnormalities and abdominal tumours. It affects almost exclusively females and can occur sporadically or in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. In the past decade remarkable progress has been made in understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease leading to a new therapeutic approach. This review summarises recent advances regarding pathogenic mechanisms and clinical manifestations, and highlights the current and the most promising future therapeutic strategies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal / therapeutic use
  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Lung Neoplasms / therapy
  • Lymphangioleiomyomatosis / pathology*
  • Lymphangioleiomyomatosis / therapy
  • Rare Diseases / pathology
  • Rare Diseases / therapy
  • TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases / antagonists & inhibitors
  • TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases / therapeutic use
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Tuberous Sclerosis / complications

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal
  • Biomarkers
  • TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases