CPAM
Pronunciation: C-P-A-M
Also written as: CPAM — Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation - a developmental lung lesion with cystic and solid components.
Full Definition
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), formerly known as congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM), is a rare developmental anomaly of the lung characterized by abnormal branching and cystic dilation of terminal bronchioles. CPAMs are classified into five types (0-4) based on cyst size and histological features, with type 1 (large cysts) and type 2 (small cysts) being most common. These lesions may be detected prenatally on ultrasound or present postnatally with respiratory distress, recurrent infections, or as incidental findings. Histologically, CPAMs show abnormal lung architecture with cystic spaces lined by respiratory epithelium and may contain cartilage, smooth muscle, and mucous glands in inappropriate locations.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred current terminology over CCAM. Always specify type when known (0-4 classification system).
In Context
- "Histopathological examination confirmed type 1 CPAM with large cystic spaces and normal intervening lung tissue." — Surgical pathology report
- "The resected lung segment showed features consistent with CPAM type 2, previously known as CCAM." — Pediatric thoracic surgery report