This review summarizes important pathological lesions of the lung that typically present radiographically with an 'alveolar pattern'. For each entity, the latest findings as to its pathogenesis, aetiology and pathology are reviewed in the introductory remarks. We then present the typical radiological appearances alongside macroscopic and microscopic pathological photographs. It is hoped that the parallel presentation of radiological image with the pathology will enhance the understanding of the diverse range of diseases the aevolar pattern comprises.
Department of Anatomical Pathology and Division of Medical, Imaging, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia. jurgen.stahl@flinders.edu.au
