Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM): Treatments

LAM, or lymphangioleiomyomatosis, is a rare lung disease that mostly affects women of childbearing age. In LAM, abnormal, muscle-like cells begin to grow out of control in certain organs or tissues, especially the lungs, lymph nodes, and kidneys.

Part of: Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)

Treatments for Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)

Currently, no treatment is available to stop the growth of the cysts and cell clusters that occur in LAM. Most treatments for LAM are aimed at easing symptoms and preventing complications.

The main treatments are:

Medicines to improve air flow in the lungs and reduce wheezing Oxygen therapy Procedures to remove fluid from the chest or abdomen and stop it from building up again Procedures to shrink angiomyolipomas (AMLs) Lung transplant Hormone therapy

Medicines That Help You Breathe Better

If you’re having trouble breathing, your doctor may prescribe bronchodilators. These medicines relax the muscles around the airways. This helps the airways open up, making it easier for you to breathe.

Lung function tests can sometimes show whether these medicines are likely to help you.

Medicines That Prevent Bone Loss

Women who have LAM are at risk for a bone-weakening condition called osteoporosis… Read more about Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM): Treatments