• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Stages of LAM

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a progressive disease, resulting in increasingly impaired lung function over time. The rate of development can vary considerably among patients. Some women have aggressive, fast-growing disease, while others remain stable for many years.

In early stages of LAM, patients can usually go about their daily activities without too much trouble. As the disease advances, there is typically more extensive growth of muscle cells throughout the lung and repeated leakage of fluid into the chest cavity (pleural effusions). This can lead to a collapsed lung.  As an increasing number of cysts are formed, the lung takes on a honeycomb appearance.

        LAM Lung                             Regular Lung

 

 

 

At this point, LAM patients typically have very limited mobility, require oxygen and, as a last resort, may be considered for lung transplantation.

 

 

Learn more about the symptoms, cause and treatment of LAM.

Get ideas and advice on how you can support The LAM Foundation.

Read about the latest news and happenings in the LAM community.