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The lung in the antiphospholipid syndrome
G Espinosa1, R Cervera, J Font
1Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|February 7, 2002
Summary
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) can cause various lung diseases, including common issues like pulmonary embolism and hypertension, as well as rarer conditions. Recognizing these vascular injuries is crucial for diagnosing APS-related respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Antiphosphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.
- Pulmonary manifestations are recognized complications of APS, but their spectrum and clinical significance require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the range of pulmonary diseases associated with antiphosphospholipid syndrome (APS).
- To highlight the importance of considering APS in patients presenting with specific respiratory symptoms and radiographic findings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of reported pulmonary complications in patients with APS.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Pulmonary thromboembolism and pulmonary hypertension are the most frequent pulmonary complications in APS.
- Less common but significant manifestations include microvascular pulmonary thrombosis, pulmonary capillaritis, and alveolar hemorrhage.
- Dyspnea, fever, and pulmonary infiltrates on chest radiography in APS patients warrant evaluation for vascular injury.
Conclusions:
- A diverse spectrum of pulmonary vascular diseases can occur in patients with antiphosphospholipid syndrome.
- Early recognition and consideration of these pulmonary complications are essential for timely diagnosis and management of APS.