Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage, A Potentially Life-Threatening Manifestation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and the Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Authors: Cavallasca, Javier A.; Maliandi, Maria d.R.; Goffredo, Diego H.; Nasswetter, Gustavo G.

Source: Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews, Volume 5, Number 2, May 2009 , pp. 120-124(5)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a potentially life-threatening pulmonary manifestation that has been associated with various diseases. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment. The clinical manifestations consist of hemoptysis, hypoxia, a drop in the hemoglobin level and new pulmonary infiltrates on chest X-ray.

Infrequently, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) could be complicated by this severe pulmonary manifestation. The most common histologic lesion in SLE and Antiphospholipid Syndrome is pulmonary capillaritis. Corticosteroids with or without immunosuppressive agents such as cyclophosphamide are the mainstay of the therapy. Plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin or the newer biologic agents would be considered if there is a persistent lack of clinical response.

Keywords: Systemic lupus erythematosus; diffuse alveolar hemorrhage; antiphospholipid syndrome; pulmonary hemorrhage

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157339809788189987

Publication date: 2009-05-01

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Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews publishes frontier reviews on all the latest advances on respiratory diseases and its related areas e.g. pharmacology, pathogenesis, clinical care, and therapy. The journal's aim is to publish the highest quality review articles dedicated to clinical research in the field. The journal is essential reading for all researchers and clinicians in respiratory medicine.