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Updated: May 20, 2026
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Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Evaluating systemic lupus erythematosus patients for lung involvement.
Lupus
|July 21, 2012
Summary
Respiratory symptoms and abnormal lung function are common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Shrinking lung syndrome (SLS) affects 10% of SLE patients, often linked to longer disease duration and specific antibodies.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can manifest with respiratory complications.
- The frequency of respiratory symptoms, lung dysfunction, and shrinking lung syndrome (SLS) in SLE requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, abnormal lung function, and SLS in SLE patients.
- To identify clinical and serologic factors associated with SLS in SLE.
Main Methods:
- Prospective enrollment of adult SLE patients meeting American College of Rheumatology criteria.
- Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and chest imaging (X-ray or CT) were performed.
- SLS was defined by dyspnea, restrictive lung physiology (<80% FVC), and absence of interstitial lung disease.
Main Results:
- 63% of SLE patients reported respiratory symptoms, and 66% showed abnormal lung function.
- 10% of patients met the criteria for SLS.
- Longer disease duration, history of pleuritis, anti-dsDNA, anti-RNP antibodies, and serositis were associated with SLS.
Conclusions:
- Respiratory issues, including abnormal lung function and SLS, are prevalent in SLE.
- Clinicians should assess symptomatic SLE patients, especially those with long disease duration and pleuritis, for SLS.
