Amyloidosis presenting as a malignancy: Two case reports and key diagnostic clues

Abstract

Respiratory amyloidosis manifests in three forms: focal/diffuse tracheobronchial, nodular parenchymal, and diffuse parenchymal. Surgical treatment is typically reserved for localized nodular pulmonary amyloidosis, while bronchoscopic techniques, radiotherapy, and medical therapy are preferred for other forms based on the specific subtype. We present two cases of pulmonary amyloidosis that were initially misdiagnosed as malignant based on cytology and imaging studies, but were later confirmed as amyloidosis following surgical resection. These cases highlight the potential role of surgery in such scenarios, extending its therapeutic value beyond conventional indications, as documented in the literature.