Part 2 - With every breath

Treatment of rare lung diseases

The paediatricians at the Hannover Medical School (MHH) specialize in rare lung diseases, such as the one that Irim is suffering from. Her congenital Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP) has an incidence of 2 in every 1.000.000.000 children.  The specific genetic defect for this disease was initially detected in Irim during 2006. This disease is characterised by the scavenger cells in the lung, also known as macrophages, being defective. These cells are responsible for removing cellular debris. Should there be a disruption in this clearance process, then there is the risk of the patient asphyxiating. The diagnosis four years ago of Irim’s condition was the inspiration for the doctors at the MHH to search for a cure.  

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