Systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with pericardial tamponade and lupus pneumonitis

A previously-well 37-year-old woman presented with pericardial tamponade and pulmonary infiltrates. Systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed. Pericardiocentesis and systemic treatment with prednisolone produced dramatic improvement with no recurrence. The patient underwent bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial lung biopsy, which established the diagnosis of lupus pneumonitis.