Systematic Review of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Focus on Outcome and Therapy

Management of severe acute pulmonary haemorrhage in children

Pulmonary haemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening condition with a variety of causes. Quality clinical trials are insufficient in children, restricting the evidence base to observational data and adult studies. The overall management strategy should address control of symptomatic bleeding, identification of the bleeding source, and treatment of the underlying cause. Flexible bronchoscopy is an important tool used to identify the cause and site of bleeding, do interventional procedures, and directly instil medications to affected areas. Medications to control bleeding include vasoconstrictors, antifibrinolytics, and recombinant factor VIIa. Definitive treatment often requires immunomodulatory medications, bronchial artery embolisation, or surgery. In this Review, we summarise the most recent evidence pertaining to medical, interventional, and surgical treatments of pulmonary haemorrhage in children.

Association between antiphospholipid antibodies and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage risk in systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association of aPL and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH) in patients with SLE by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Multiple databases were systematically searched from inception to February 2024. Studies were eligible if they included patients with SLE (population), reported aPL status (exposure), and DAH (outcome). We pooled the estimates as odds ratio (OR) using fixed-effect models. We examined the association between aPL and DAH, as well as associations based on aPL subtypes or concomitant APS.

RESULTS

Out of 454 screened studies, nine were included in meta-analysis, encompassing 7746 patients with SLE, of whom 2016 (26.0%) were aPL-positive and 163 (2.1%) had DAH. Patients with SLE and positive aPL (any) were more likely to develop DAH than aPL-negative patients (OR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.24-2.49; I2 = 0%). Patients with SLE and positive LA (OR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.06-2.93, I2 = 35%) or positive anticardiolipin IgG (OR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.13-2.34, I2 = 0%) had a higher likelihood of developing DAH compared with patients that were negative for these aPL. An APS diagnosis was associated with a 2.5-fold increased likelihood of DAH compared with subjects without APS (OR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.23-4.92, I2 = 0%). Positivity of anti-β2 glycoprotein I IgG was not significantly associated with DAH among patients with SLE (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.45-1.36, I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSION

In patients with SLE, aPL positivity increases the risk of DAH compared with aPL-negative patients, particularly in those positive for LA and anticardiolipin IgG.

Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage as a Life-Threatening Complication of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare but severe pulmonary complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), characterized by alveolar bleeding leading to respiratory distress, hypoxemia, and often hemoptysis. Rapid diagnosis and aggressive immunosuppressive therapy are crucial for survival. A 55-year-old woman with a five-year history of SLE presented with acute dyspnea, hemoptysis, pleuritic chest pain, fatigue, and low-grade fever. On examination, she had bilateral crackles on auscultation, hypoxemia, tachycardia, and mild pitting edema. Laboratory tests revealed anemia, elevated anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) titers, and low complement levels. Imaging studies showed bilateral patchy infiltrates on chest X-ray and ground-glass opacities on high-resolution CT (HRCT), suggesting DAH. Differential diagnoses considered included lupus pneumonitis, infection, and pulmonary embolism, but DAH was strongly suspected based on the patient's clinical presentation, lab, and imaging findings. Treatment with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide was initiated, leading to stabilization of respiratory symptoms and gradual improvement. The patient was discharged on oral corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine, with significant clinical improvement observed at one-month follow-up. DAH in SLE is a medical emergency that requires a multidisciplinary approach and rapid therapeutic intervention. This case underscores the potential for favorable outcomes when DAH is recognized and managed promptly, though further research is needed to refine long-term treatment strategies for these high-risk patients.

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: data from the Spanish society of rheumathology Lupus Register (RELESSER)

INTRODUCTION

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare complication with high mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to improve patient prognosis. To determine the characteristics of patients with DAH and their mortality in a Spanish cohort of patients with SLE.

METHODS

Patients from the RELESSER (Spanish Society of Rheumatology Lupus Register) who had had at least one confirmed episode of DAH were included. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory characteristics were analyzed.

RESULTS

4024 patients were included in the RELESSER register, 37 (0.9%), had at least one recorded episode of DAH. Only further data for 14 patients could be analyzed. In total, 92.9% were women, and for 4 (28.6%) DAH coincided with the debut of SLE. More than 80% of patients had renal involvement and thrombocytopenia. The most frequent manifestations were dyspnea (85.7%) and hypoxemia (100%), with the classic triad of hemoptysis, anemia and pulmonary infiltrates, appearing in 6 (46.2%) patients. The most frequently used treatments were glucocorticoids (85.7%) and cyclophosphamide (69.2%); plasmapheresis was utilized in 5 patients (35.7%) and 8, (57.1%) received intravenous immunoglobulins; 12 (85.7%) patients required admission to the ICU and 5 (35.7%) died. Tobacco use, history of lupus nephritis (LN), concomitant infection, and treatment with cyclophosphamide were more frequent in patients who died.

CONCLUSIONS

DAH is rare in patients with SLE; in up to one-third of patients, it may appear at the onset of the disease. Some factors, such as smoking, a history of LN, treatment with cyclophosphamide, or concomitant infection, are more prevalent in patients with an unfavorable outcome.

Innovations in the care of childhood interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue disease and immune-mediated disorders

Childhood interstitial lung disease (chILD) associated with connective tissue and immune mediated disorders is the second most common chILD diagnostic category. As knowledge of the molecular and genetic underpinnings of these rare disorders advances, the recognized clinical spectrum of associated pulmonary manifestations continues to expand. Pulmonary complications of these diseases, including ILD, confer increased risk for morbidity and mortality and contribute to increased complexity for providers tasked with managing the multiple organ systems that can be impacted in these systemic disorders. While pulmonologists play an important role in diagnosis and management of these conditions, thankfully they do not have to work alone. In collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of subspecialists, the pulmonary and other systemic manifestations of these conditions can be managed effectively together. The goal of this review is to familiarize the reader with the classic patterns of chILD and other pulmonary complications associated with primary immune-mediated disorders (monogenic inborn errors of immunity) and acquired systemic autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. In addition, this review will highlight current, emerging, and innovative therapeutic strategies and will underscore the important role of multidisciplinary management to improving outcomes for these patients.

French protocol for the diagnosis and management of systemic lupus erythematosus

Because Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a rare disease, and due to the significant prognostic impact of early management, a diagnosis confirmed by a physician with experience in SLE is recommended, for example from an expert center. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, existing manifestations should be identified in particular, renal involvement by an assessment of proteinuria, disease activity and severity should be determined, potential complications anticipated, associated diseases searched for, and the patient's socioprofessional and family context noted. Therapeutic management of SLE includes patient education on recognizing symptoms, understanding disease progression as well as when they should seek medical advice. Patients are informed about routine checkups, treatment side effects, and the need for regular vaccinations, especially if they are receiving immunosuppressive treatment. They are also advised on lifestyle factors such as the risks of smoking, sun exposure, and dietary adjustments, especially when they are receiving corticosteroids. The importance of contraception, particularly when teratogenic medications are being used, and regular cancer screening are emphasized. Support networks can help relieve a patient's isolation. The first-line medical treatment of SLE is hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), possibly combined with an immunosuppressant and/or low-dose corticosteroid therapy. The treatment of flares depends on their severity, and typically involves HCQ and NSAIDs, but may be escalated to corticosteroid therapy with immunosuppressants or biologic therapies in moderate to severe cases. Because there is no curative treatment, the goals of therapy are patient comfort, preventing progression and flares, and preserving overall long-term health and fertility. The frequency of follow-up visits depends on disease severity and any new symptoms. Regular specialized assessments are necessary, especially when treatment changes, but a frequency of every 3 to 6 months is recommended during periods of remission and monthly during active or severe disease, especially in children. These assessments include both clinical and laboratory tests to monitor complications and disease activity, with specific attention to proteinuria.

Risk factors of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

This study aimed to investigate the frequency and features of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and evaluate the association of DAH with the features. A total of 943 patients with SLE were categorized into two groups: 896 patients without DAH and 47 patients with DAH. The demographic data, clinical and laboratory findings, and SLE disease activity index 2000 of all patients were statistically analyzed. The DAH frequency in patients with SLE was 4.98%, and the mortality rate of DAH was 42.55%. The clinical features with statistical differences between the two groups were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression, and the results suggested that shorter disease duration [odds ratio (OR): 0.972, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.946, 0.998], younger age (OR: 0.867, 95% CI 0.764, 0.984), moderate (OR: 25.949, 95% CI 3.316, 203.065) or severe (OR: 24.904, 95% CI 2.675, 231.859) anemia, abnormally elevated levels of urine protein (OR: 10.839, 95% CI 1.351, 86.938) and serum creatinine (OR: 14.534, 95% CI 5.012, 42.142), interstitial lung disease (OR: 6.569, 95% CI 2.053, 21.021), and infection (OR: 8.890, 95% CI 3.580, 22.077) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of DAH in patients with SLE. Moderate or severe anemia was highly suggestive of DAH.

Mivebresib alleviates systemic lupus erythematosus-associated diffuse alveolar hemorrhage via inhibiting infiltration of monocytes and M1 polarization of macrophages

BACKGROUND

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a serious complication that can arise from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases. While current treatments for DAH have limitations and adverse side effects, recent evidence suggests that inflammatory macrophages play a crucial role in the development of DAH. In this study, we investigated Mivebresib, a BET protein-bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) inhibitor, as a potential treatment for DAH.

RESULTS

Our findings show that Mivebresib effectively protected C57BL/6J mice against pristane-induced DAH by inhibiting the migration and polarization of monocytes and macrophages, as well as pathogenic B and T cells. Specifically, Mivebresib modified the distribution of leukocytes, impeded the polarization of inflammatory macrophages, and reduced the frequency of CD19 + CD5 + B cells in the lungs of pristane-treated mice. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that Mivebresib inhibited LPS-induced M1 polarization of macrophages and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, M1 marker genes, and chemokines-chemokine receptors while thwarting the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α. Transcriptomic analysis suggested and experiments comfimed that Mivebresib inhibits M1 polarization via interrupting the p300/BRD4/HIF1A axis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that Mivebresib has therapeutic potential for the life-threatening complication of DAH caused by SLE. By inhibiting macrophage polarization and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, Mivebresib may offer a promising treatment option for patients suffering from this disease.

Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in an Undiagnosed Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patient

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations affecting multiple organs. While standardized diagnostic criteria are commonly used, the lack of pathognomonic presenting signs and symptoms often makes the diagnosis challenging. Of the many pulmonary manifestations, diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is one of the most severe complications caused by the disruption of the capillary alveolar interface. Although this condition is rarely encountered, it has a rapidly progressive course and can be life-threatening, which warrants a prompt diagnostic workup and an aggressive therapeutic approach. We report a case of a 58-year-old female who presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and multiple episodes of hemoptysis. Further investigations revealed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and diffuse bilateral infiltrates on high-resolution computed tomography, consistent with DAH in a patient with undiagnosed SLE.

Rheumatic diseases associated with alveolar hemorrhage: analysis of the national inpatient sample

OBJECTIVE

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a severe pulmonary complication of numerous diseases, including rheumatic conditions. We have conducted an observational study using inpatient data from the National Inpatient Sample to study the relationship of DAH with rheumatic conditions along with their descriptive characteristics.

METHODS

An observational study was conducted on hospitalizations in 2016-2018 with a principal diagnosis of DAH from the United States National Inpatient Sample database. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR_adj) for risk factors of DAH.

RESULTS

A total of 5420 DAH hospitalizations were identified among 90 million hospitalizations. Mortality in this group was found to be 24.3%. Majority of patients admitted with DAH were white and male, with a mean age of 61.8 years and a mean LOS of 10.6 days. Multivariate analysis showed that multiple rheumatic diseases were associated with DAH, including anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) (OR_adj 72.56) (95% C.I. 50.607-104.043), antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLS) (OR_adj 6.51) (95% C.I. 3.734-11.366), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) (OR_adj 7.13) (95% C.I. 1.886-26.926), Goodpasture's (OR_adj 30.58) (95% C.I. 16.360-57.176), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (OR_adj 1.60) (95% C.I. 1.158-2.212), sarcoidosis (OR_adj 3.99) (95% C.I. 2.300-6.926), and systemic lupus (SLE) (OR_adj 5.82) (95% C.I. 3.993-8.481).

CONCLUSION

Although DAH is a relatively rare entity, it carries a very high mortality. Multiple rheumatic diseases were associated with DAH hospitalizations including AAV, APLS, EGPA, Goodpasture's, RA, sarcoidosis, and SLE. Key points • It is known that DAH carries a high morbidity and mortality based on prior literature. However, large datasets on the association of rheumatic diseases with DAH are lacking • This study identifies the descriptive characteristics of patients admitted to the hospital with DAH • This study also identifies the strength of association of rheumatic diseases with DAH.

Infection in systemic lupus erythematosus-associated diffuse alveolar hemorrhage: a potential key to improve outcomes

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, outcomes, and associated factors of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus-associated diffusive alveolar hemorrhage (SLE-DAH) stratified by infection status in a national representative cohort.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study included 124 consecutive patients with SLE-DAH in a tertiary care center between 2006 and 2021. The diagnosis of DAH was made based on a comprehensive evaluation of clinical manifestations, laboratory and radiologic findings, and bronchoalveolar lavage. Demographics, clinical features, and survival curves were compared between patients with bacterial, non-bacterial, and non-infection groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the factors independently associated with bacterial infection in SLE-DAH.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients with SLE-DAH developed bacterial infection after DAH occurrence, thirty-two patients developed fungal and/or viral infection, and thirty-four patients were categorized as non-infection. The bacterial infection group have a worse prognosis (OR 3.059, 95%CI 1.469-6.369, p = 0.002) compared with the other two groups, with a mortality rate of 60.3% within 180 days after DAH occurrence. Factors independently associated with bacterial infections in SLE-DAH included hematuria (OR 4.523, 95%CI 1.068-19.155, p = 0.040), hemoglobin drop in the first 24 h after DAH occurred (OR 1.056, 95%CI 1.001-1.115, p = 0.049), and anti-Smith antibody (OR 0.167, 95%CI 0.052-0.535, p = 0.003). Glucocorticoid pulse therapy and cyclophosphamide were administered in more than 50% of patients regardless of their infectious status. According to clinical experience at our hospital and in previous studies, we recommended a comprehensive management algorithm for SLE-DAH based on infection stratification.

CONCLUSION

Infection, especially bacterial infection, is a severe complication and prognostic factor of SLE-DAH. Comprehensive management strategies, including diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and monitoring, based on infection stratification may fundamentally improve outcomes of patients with SLE-DAH. Key Points • Bacterial infection is an important, but neglected, prognosis factor of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-associated diffusive alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). • Hematuria, hemoglobin drop, and anti-Smith antibody can independently predict bacterial infections in SLE-DAH. • We put forward a comprehensive management algorithm based on infection stratification for SLE-DAH.

Necrostatin-1 Alleviates Diffuse Pulmonary Haemorrhage by Preventing the Release of NETs via Inhibiting NE/GSDMD Activation in Murine Lupus

Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH) is a rapidly developing condition owing to a lack of effective treatment and resulting in a high mortality rate in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) contain numerous antigens and proinflammatory substances that directly damage the vascular endothelium and aggravate vascular inflammation, which is considered an important pathogenic factor of DAH in SLE. Therefore, blocking the release of NETs from neutrophils is an important target for the treatment of DAH in SLE. In this study, we investigated whether the inhibition of neutrophils releasing NETs could relieve DAH in SLE. Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1), a small molecule, has been reported to inhibit the release of NETs by neutrophils. In vitro experiments revealed that Nec-1 inhibited alveolar epithelial cell damage by preventing the release of NETs. Furthermore, vivo studies showed that Nec-1 alleviated lupus pulmonary haemorrhage in mice by reducing lung pathology severity, body weight, and serum inflammatory cytokine levels. Mechanistically, Nec-1 prevented NET release by inhibiting neutrophil elastase (NE) activation and N-Gasdermin D (N-GSDMD) expression. Additionally, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence findings showed that Nec-1 decreased NE expression in the lung tissues of mice with lupus pulmonary haemorrhage. Thus, NETs released by neutrophils contributed to the pathogenesis of DAH in SLE, and Nec-1 showed protective effects by the inhibition of NET production via the reduction of NE activation and N-GSDMD expression.

A Rare Case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage and Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune systemic disease with many organ involvements with high morbidity and mortality percentage. It's unusual for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to present with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) as the earliest presentation. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) refers to the effusion of blood into the alveoli due to damaged pulmonary microvasculature. It's a rare but severe complication of systemic lupus associated with a high mortality rate. It occurs in three different overlapping phenotypes, which are acute capillaritis, bland pulmonary hemorrhage, and diffuse alveolar damage. diffuse alveolar hemorrhage develops in a short period of time (hours to days). Central and peripheral nervous system complications generally develop during the course of the illness and actually uncommonly from the beginning of the illness. Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune polyneuropathy usually occurring post-viral, post-vaccination, or surgery. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been associated with several neuropsychiatric manifestations and the development of GBS. GBS as the first presentation of SLE is exceedingly rare. Here, we present the case of a patient with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and Guillain-Barre syndrome as an atypical presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) flare.

Multi-target therapy in a lupus patient with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease based on the pathology of small-vessel inflammation, which can affect multiple organs. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare and severe complication of SLE with high mortality, most commonly seen in young women. It often appears along with clinical manifestations of sudden dyspnea, hemoptysis, and rapid onset of hypoxemia, which develops into respiratory failure and even multiple organs damage.

CASE REPORT

The case of a 28-year-old female who was diagnosed with SLE complicated with DAH is presented here. The patient, who experienced recurring DAH, responded poorly to the common therapy of high-dose glucocorticoid plus cyclophosphamide and plasma exchange. After the treatment was adjusted to a multi-target regimen of glucocorticoid, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and belimumab, the symptoms began to improve.

CONCLUSION

The multi-target regimen may be a new treatment strategy of SLE complicated with DAH.

Pulmonary renal syndrome: a clinical review

The term "pulmonary renal syndrome" describes a clinical syndrome which is characterised by the presence of both diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and glomerulonephritis. It encompasses a group of diseases with distinctive clinical and radiological manifestations, as well as different pathophysiological processes. The most common diseases implicated are anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA)-positive small vessel vasculitis and anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease. Prompt recognition is required as respiratory failure and end-stage renal failure can rapidly occur. Treatment includes a combination of glucocorticoids, immunosuppression, plasmapheresis and supportive measures. The use of targeted treatments has significantly reduced mortality. Thus, an understanding of pulmonary renal syndrome is essential for the respiratory physician.

Thoracic Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: Pathogenesis and Management

Thoracic involvement is one of the main determinants of morbidity and mortality in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs), with different prevalence and manifestations according to the underlying disease. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the most common pulmonary complication, particularly in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Other thoracic manifestations include pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), mostly in patients with SSc, airway disease, mainly in RA, and pleural involvement, which is common in systemic lupus erythematosus and RA, but rare in other ARDs.In this review, we summarize and critically discuss the current knowledge on thoracic involvement in ARDs, with emphasis on disease pathogenesis and management. Immunosuppression is the mainstay of therapy, particularly for ARDs-ILD, but it should be reserved to patients with clinically significant disease or at risk of progressive disease. Therefore, a thorough, multidisciplinary assessment to determine disease activity and degree of impairment is required to optimize patient management. Nevertheless, the management of thoracic involvement-particularly ILD-is challenging due to the heterogeneity of disease pathogenesis, the variety of patterns of interstitial pneumonia and the paucity of randomized controlled clinical trials of pharmacological intervention. Further studies are needed to better understand the pathogenesis of these conditions, which in turn is instrumental to the development of more efficacious therapies.

Management of non-renal manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic literature review for the APLAR consensus statements

The prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is higher in Asians than Caucasians, with higher frequency of renal and other major organ manifestations that carry a poorer prognosis. The outcome of SLE is still unsatisfactory in many parts of the Asia Pacific region due to limited access to healthcare systems, poor treatment adherence and adverse reactions to therapies. The Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) SLE special interest group has recently published a set of consensus recommendation statements for the management of SLE in the Asia Pacific region. The current article is a supplement of systematic literature search (SLR) to the prevalence and treatment of non-renal manifestations of SLE in Asian patients.

Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage in systemic lupus erythematosus patients

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary haemorrhage (PH) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rare but potentially fatal complication due to its high mortality. Early treatment benefits the outcome. Reports on predictive factors of PH in SLE patients are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case series of PH in SLE patients that were attended in the Rheumatology Section of the J. M. Cullen Hospital and to compare this data with published results.

METHODS

Patients with SLE (1982-1997 ACR criteria) and PH diagnosed by clinical criteria (cough, dyspnoea, haemoptysis), haemoglobin below 12 g/dL or drop greater than 2 points, new radiological infiltrate and bronchioalveolar lavage, monitored between June 1987 and December 2019 were studied. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment and prognosis data related to PH were analysed.

RESULTS

From a database of 306 SLE patients, 25 (8.2%) developed 29 episodes of PH. PH was the first manifestation of SLE in 8 patients. Renal involvement was the most frequent manifestation prior to the development of PH. SLE activity (measured by SLEDAI) was high during the episodes (mean: 16.8). Renal failure (p = .027) and mechanical respiratory support (p = .006) were related to mortality (40.7%) with statistical significance. Patients with SLEDAI higher to 10 at SLE onset showed more likelihood of developing PH. The OR was 2.68 (p = .046).

CONCLUSIONS

Although treatment in SLE has progressed in recent years, PH continues to be a rare and severe complication of this disease. When a PH is suspected, studies to confirm it must be done rapidly, since early diagnosis and aggressive treatment have been shown to improve survival. We observed that patients with renal involvement and mechanical respiratory support had higher mortality than SLE patients without them.

The etiology, clinical profile, and outcome of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in children: a ten-year single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a life-threatening syndrome that may be caused by numerous disorders. There is scant data on the etiology and characteristics of DAH in children.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of patients admitted to a tertiary pediatric hospital with DAH over a 10-year period. The syndrome was classified into five groups according to different etiologies, and the characteristics and outcomes of patients were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 74 children were included in the study. Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis (IPH) was the most frequent cause (64.9%), followed by miscellaneous causes (infection and other conditions) (16.2%), immune-mediated disorders (9.5%), liver dysfunction (5.4%), and cardiovascular disorders (4.1%). The median age of the patients was 3.5 years (ranging from 1.5 to 7 years), and no difference was found in the proportion of fever, crackles, and pulmonary infiltrates among the five etiological groups. There was no difference in the proportion of blood transfusions among the groups. Cardiac catheterization was performed on 31 patients for whom the diagnostic workup was negative and were suspected of having IPH, and abnormal signs were observed and bronchial artery embolization (BAE) was performed in all those patients. The patients with IPH had the lowest mortality, while those with DAH secondary to liver failure had the highest mortality. Patients in BAE group had a shorter duration of corticosteroids and a lower relapse rate than non-BAE group.

CONCLUSIONS

Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis is a common etiology of DAH and has a good prognosis in children. Vascular abnormalities were observed in the patients with IPH. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of vascular malformations in IPH.

Diagnosis and management of lung involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome: a literature review

Lung involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) has extensively been outlined with a multiplicity of different manifestations. In SLE, the most frequent finding is pleural effusion, while in pSS, airway disease and parenchymal disorders prevail. In both cases, there is an increased risk of pre-capillary and post-capillary pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary venous thromboembolism (VTE). The risk of VTE is in part due to an increased thrombophilic status secondary to systemic inflammation or to the well-established association with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS). The lung can also be the site of an organ-specific complication due to the aberrant pathologic immune-hyperactivation as occurs in the development of lymphoma or amyloidosis in pSS. Respiratory infections are a major issue to be addressed when approaching the differential diagnosis, and their exclusion is required to safely start an immunosuppressive therapy. Treatment strategy is mainly based on glucocorticoids (GCs) and immunosuppressants, with a variable response according to the primary pathologic process. Anticoagulation is recommended in case of VTE and multi-targeted treatment regimens including different drugs are the mainstay for PAH management. Antibiotics and respiratory physiotherapy can be considered relevant complement therapeutic measures. In this article, we reviewed lung manifestations in SLE and pSS with the aim to provide a comprehensive overview of their diagnosis and management to physicians taking care of patients with connective tissue diseases.

Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Regulate Macrophage Polarization to Attenuate Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Associated Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in Mice

Background and Objectives

To investigate the effect and the underlying mechanism of exosomes secreted by human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) on diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in murine lupus.

Methods and Results

Exosomes were extracted from cultured hUCMSCs by ultracentrifugation. The expressions of exosome markers (Alix, CD63 and TSG101) were measured for identification of hUCMSC-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-exosomes). The alveolar hemorrhage of DAH mice was revealed by H&E staining. The primary alveolar macrophages were isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of DAH mice. The expressions of M1 macrophage markers (iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β) and M2 macrophage markers (Arg1, IL-10, TGF-β and chi3l3) were detected. Flow cytometry measured the ratio of M1/M2 macrophages. ELISA measured the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β). DAH mice had hemorrhage and small-vessel vasculitis in the lung, with neutrophil and monocyte infiltration observed around the capillary and small artery. Furthermore, increases of IL-6 and TNF-α, and decreases of IL-10 and TGF-β were detected in the BALF of DAH mice. M1 makers were overexpressed in alveolar macrophages of DAH mice while M2 makers were lowly expressed. DAH mice had a higher proportion of M1 macrophages than M2 macrophages. After hUCMSC-exosome or methylprednisolone treatment in DAH mice, the alveolar injuries and inflammatory responses were attenuated, and the proportion of M2 macrophages was increased.

Conclusions

hUCMSC-exosomes attenuate DAH-induced inflammatory responses and alveolar hemorrhage by regulating macrophage polarization.

Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Based on Observational Studies

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare but potentially deadly manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics and risk factors of DAH in SLE. A systematic review and meta-analysis of previous observational studies compared the clinical characteristics and risk factors between DAH-SLE and SLE patients without DAH. A total of 5 observational studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the SLE patients without DAH, DAH-SLE patients had a significantly higher incidence of neuropsychiatric events (OR = 4.321, 95% CI (1.686-11.073), P = 0.002, I² = 49.2%), nephritis (OR = 3.146, 95% CI (1.663-5.955,), P = 0.000, I² = 0.0%), serositis (OR = 6.028, 95% CI (1.418-25.635), P = 0.015, I² = 80.3%), dyspnea (OR = 31.241,95% CI (0.202-4833.203), P = 0.181, I² = 94.6%), and a significantly lower level of C3 (SMD = - 1.358, 95% CI - 1.685, - 1.031), P = 0.000, I² = 98.0%), C4 (SMD = - 1.251, 95% CI (- 1.648, - 0.855), P = 0.000, I² = 87.7%), hemoglobin (SMD = - 2.074, 95% CI (- 2.433, - 1.715), P = 0.000, I² = 94.2%), and a higher SLEDAI-2K score (SMD = 1.284, 95% CI (0.959, 1.608), P = 0.000, I² = 98.2%). However, due to significant heterogeneity, some of these results should be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, when the above abnormal indicators are found, especially neuropsychiatric involvement and nephritis, besides the existed diagnostic criteria for DAH in SLE patients, a diagnosis for DAH should be considered and relevant treatment timely initiated. Further prospective multi-center SLE studies with a large cohort of patients and long-term follow-up are needed to clarify further or find out the specific clinical indexes for DAH in SLE patients.

The Asia-Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology consensus statements on the management of systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is prevalent in Asia and carries a variable prognosis among patients across the Asia-Pacific region, which could relate to access to health care, tolerability of medications, and adherence to therapies. Because many aspects of SLE are unique among patients from this region, the Asia-Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology developed the first set of consensus recommendations on the management of SLE. A core panel of 13 rheumatologists drafted a set of statements through face-to-face meeting and teleconferences. A literature review was done for each statement to grade the quality of evidence and strength of recommendation. 29 independent specialists and three patients with SLE were then recruited for a modified Delphi process to establish consensus on the statements through an online voting platform. A total of 34 consensus recommendations were developed. Panellists agreed that patients with SLE should be referred to a specialist for the formulation of a treatment plan through shared decision making between patients and physicians. Remission was agreed to be the goal of therapy, but when it cannot be achieved, a low disease activity state should be aimed for. Patients should be screened for renal disease, and hydroxychloroquine is recommended for all Asian people with SLE. Major organ manifestations of SLE should be treated with induction immunosuppression and subsequently maintenance; options include cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, and calcineurin inhibitors, in combination with glucocorticoids. Biologics, combination regimens, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulins should be reserved for cases of refractory or life-threatening disease. Anticoagulation therapy with warfarin is preferred to the direct oral anticoagulants for thromboembolic SLE manifestations associated with a high-risk antiphospholipid antibody profile.

Targeting Intra-Pulmonary P53-Dependent Long Non-Coding RNA Expression as a Therapeutic Intervention for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Associated Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with significant mortality, requiring a thorough understanding of its complex mechanisms to develop novel therapeutics for disease control. Activated p53-dependent apoptosis with dysregulated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression is involved in the SLE pathogenesis and correlated with clinical activity. We examined the expression of apoptosis-related p53-dependent lncRNA, including H19, HOTAIR and lincRNA-p21 in SLE-associated DAH patients. Increased lincRNA-p21 levels were detected in circulating mononuclear cells, mainly in CD4+ and CD14+ cells. Higher expression of p53, lincRNA-p21 and cell apoptosis was identified in lung tissues. Lentivirus-based short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-transduced stable transfectants were created for examining the targeting efficacy in lncRNA. Under pristane stimulation, alveolar epithelial cells had increased p53, lincRNA-p21 and downstream Bax levels with elevated apoptotic ratios. After pristane injection, C57/BL6 mice developed DAH with increased pulmonary expression of p53, lincRNA-p21 and cell apoptosis. Intra-pulmonary delivery of shRNA targeting lincRNA-p21 reduced hemorrhage frequencies and improved anemia status through decreasing Bax expression and cell apoptosis. Our findings demonstrate increased p53-dependent lncRNA expression with accelerated cell apoptosis in the lungs of SLE-associated DAH patients, and show the therapeutic potential of targeting intra-pulmonary lncRNA expression in a pristane-induced model of DAH.

Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage: A Cohort of Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Its prognosis and factors associated with mortality are not completely clear, although invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), use of cyclophosphamide, a high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, and infections are associated with high mortality rates. We investigated clinical and immunologic characteristics and factors associated with mortality in a cohort of Latin American patients with SLE who developed DAH.

METHODS

A medical records review study was conducted of patients with SLE who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with DAH between 2011 and 2018. Clinical, laboratory, and treatment variables were compared between survivors and nonsurvivors.

RESULTS

A total of 17 patients with SLE presented with DAH during the study period, of whom 11 (64.70%) were women. The median age was 28 (19-38.5) years. The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) on admission to the ICU was 15.94 ± 10.07. All patients received pulse methylprednisolone and therapeutic plasma exchange, and 13 (76. %) also received cyclophosphamide. During the hospital stay, 5 patients (29.41%) died. A high SLEDAI on admission, low albumin, and days of IMV and inotropic/vasoactive support were statistically significant in comparing nonsurvivors with survivors. Other scales of disease severity commonly used in the ICU, however, were not significantly associated with a fatal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoalbuminemia, longer duration of IMV or inotropic/vasoactive treatment, and a high SLEDAI are potential prognostic factors for mortality in patients with SLE and DAH admitted to the ICU.

Risk factors for mortality of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare but life-threatening complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The current knowledge of the prognostic factors for SLE-associated DAH is controversial. This meta-analysis was undertaken to investigate the relevant risk factors for mortality in SLE-associated DAH.

Methods

Studies were searched from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases published up to May 27, 2020, and were selected or removed according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two reviewers extracted data independently from the enrolled studies, and the odds ratios (OR) or the standardized mean difference (SMD) was utilized to identify and describe the prognostic factors for mortality.

Results

Eight studies encompassing 251 patients with SLE-associated DAH were included in the meta-analysis. No significant publication bias was shown. Age at the diagnosis of DAH (SMD = 0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.08, 0.61), P = 0.01, I² = 0.0%) was found to be an independent risk factor of mortality. Longer lupus disease duration (SMD = 0.28, 95% CI (0.01, 0.55), P = 0.042, I² = 0.0%), concurrent infection (OR = 2.77, 95% CI (1.55, 4.95), P = 0.001, I² = 37.5%), plasmapheresis treatment (OR = 1.96, 95% CI (1.04, 3.70), P = 0.038, I² = 14.6%), and mechanical ventilation (OR = 6.11, 95% CI (3.27, 11.39), P < 0.0001, I² = 23.3%) were also related to poor survival, whereas no noticeable relationships were revealed between survival and concurrent lupus nephritis (OR = 5.45, 95% CI (0.52, 56.95), P = 0.16, I² = 58.4%) or treatment of cyclophosphamide (CTX) (OR = 0.74, 95% CI (0.16, 3.41), P = 0.70, I² = 75.5%).

Conclusions

Older age at the diagnosis of DAH, longer disease duration of SLE, concurrent infection, plasmapheresis treatment, and mechanical ventilation were found related to increased mortality in patients with SLE-associated DAH according to our meta-analysis. However, due to limited studies with heterogeneity, these results should be interpreted cautiously. Notably, severe diseases rendered the requirement of plasmapheresis treatment and mechanical ventilation are themselves associated with poor outcome. Randomized trials of therapeutics are needed to determine the most efficacious strategies for SLE-associated DAH for better management of this life-threatening complication.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02435-9.

A Fatal Case of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in the Setting of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report and Review of Noninfectious Causes of Acute Pulmonary Hemorrhage in Adults

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease, characterized by autoantibody production and immune complex formation, that has the potential to affect virtually any organ. Pleuropulmonary involvement occurs in 50–70% and commonly manifests as pleuritis and pleural effusion. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare manifestation of SLE. Most cases of DAH occur in young adults with an underlying autoimmune disease such as systemic vasculitis or Goodpasture syndrome. SLE is typically lower on the list of initial differential diagnoses of DAH due to its rarity compared to other etiologies. We present a case of a patient with dyspnea on exertion, dry coughs, lower extremity edema, and intermittent periorbital edema who ultimately succumbed to respiratory failure secondary to DAH in the setting of SLE. The diagnosis of SLE was suspected clinically and confirmed at autopsy due to her rapid clinical deterioration. DAH requires prompt intervention, and management is guided by the underlying disease process. SLE is a potentially treatable disease; therefore, timely diagnosis is important in order to exclude other noninfectious causes of DAH (reviewed in this report) and to initiate appropriate therapy.

Diffuse Alveolar Haemorrhage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary haemorrhage (PH) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rare but potentially fatal complication due to its high mortality. Early treatment benefits the outcome. Reports on predictive factors of PH in SLE patients are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case series of PH in SLE patients that were attended in the Rheumatology Section of the J. M. Cullen Hospital and to compare this data with published results.

METHODS

Patients with SLE (1982-1997 ACR criteria) and PH diagnosed by clinical criteria (cough, dyspnoea, haemoptysis), haemoglobin below 12 g/dL or drop greater than 2 points, new radiological infiltrate and bronchioalveolar lavage, monitored between June 1987 and December 2019 were studied. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment and prognosis data related to PH were analysed.

RESULTS

From a database of 306 SLE patients, 25 (8.2%) developed 29 episodes of PH. PH was the first manifestation of SLE in 8 patients. Renal involvement was the most frequent manifestation prior to the development of PH. SLE activity (measured by SLEDAI) was high during the episodes (mean: 16.8). Renal failure (p = 0.027) and mechanical respiratory support (p = 0.006) were related to mortality (40.7%) with statistical significance. Patients with SLEDAI higher to 10 at SLE onset showed more likelihood of developing PH. The OR was 2.68 (p = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

Although treatment in SLE has progressed in recent years, PH continues to be a rare and severe complication of this disease. When a PH is suspected, studies to confirm it must be done rapidly, since early diagnosis and aggressive treatment have been shown to improve survival. We observed that patients with renal involvement and mechanical respiratory support had higher mortality than SLE patients without them.

Management of Severe Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Real-World Experience and Literature Review

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a highly heterogeneous disease affecting multiple organs and is characterized by an aberrant immune response. Although the mortality of SLE has decreased significantly since the application of glucocorticoids, severe or refractory SLE can potentially cause irreversible organ damage and contribute to the disease morbidity and mortality. Early recognition of severe SLE or life-threatening conditions is of great challenge to clinicians since the onset symptoms can be rapid and aggressive, involving the visceral organs of the neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, hematologic, renal, pulmonary, and cardiovascular systems, etc. Additionally, SLE patients with specific comorbidities and detrimental complications could lead to a clinical dilemma and contribute to poor prognosis. Prompt and adequate treatment for severe refractory SLE is crucial for a better prognosis. However, as evidence from well-designed randomized controlled trials is limited, this review aims to provide real-world evidence based on cohort studies from Peking Union Medical College Hospital, the national tertiary referral center in China, together with the literature, on clinical characteristics, risks and prognostic factors, and treatment strategies for severe and/or refractory SLE.

Systemic lupus erythematosus-associated diffuse alveolar hemorrhage: a single-center, matched case-control study in China

BACKGROUND

This study described clinical characteristics and outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH), and investigated risk factors and prognostic factors for DAH.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective nested case-control analysis in a single-center cohort. We enrolled 94 SLE patients with DAH. For each case of DAH, two age-, sex-, and SLE courses-matched controls were randomly selected from our cohort. All patients were enrolled between 2004 and 2019 and were followed until death, end of registration with the physician's practice, or end of January 2019. We estimated the risk factors for DAH and prognostic factors for mortality using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

We included 4744 patients diagnosed with SLE, with 94 cases of DAH, for an incidence rate of 2.0%. DAH may occur in any stage of SLE but mostly in the early phase of disease course. Lupus nephritis (LN) was the most common concomitant involvement at DAH diagnosis. By multivariate analysis, LN, anti-SSA positivity, thrombocytopenia and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) were significantly associated with DAH in SLE patients. All-cause mortality was increased in SLE with DAH compared with SLE without DAH (adjusted hazard ratio 6.0, 95% confidence interval 2.8-13.0, p < 0.0001). Intravenous cyclophosphamide (CTX) showed an increased tendency for better survival in DAH after adjusting for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000, acute kidney injury and mechanical ventilation.

CONCLUSIONS

LN, anti-SSA positivity, thrombocytopenia and elevated CRP were independent risk factors of DAH in lupus patients. Due to a high early death rate of DAH and little long-term damage, DAH patients may benefit from early diagnosis and intensive treatment, and CTX-based therapy can be a preferential choice.

Systemic lupus erythematosus and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, etiology and novel treatment strategies

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage is a severe respiratory complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. The illness develops over hours to a few days and is the systemic lupus erythematosus-associated syndrome with highest mortality. Although no specific symptoms have been identified, a number of features are associated with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, with a drop in blood hemoglobin the most prominent. Dyspnea, blood-stained sputum, diffuse infiltrates identified by chest imaging, elevated single breath-diffusing capacity for monoxide, thrombocytopenia and C3 hypocomplementemia are other commonly reported signs of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. The etiology is not completely understood but many patients develop diffuse alveolar hemorrhage concomitant with lupus nephritis, suggesting immune complex-driven pathology. Biopsy studies have identified both cases with capillaritis and a bland non-inflammatory phenotype. An animal model of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage has indicated requirement of B lymphocytes and complement receptor-mediated apoptotic body phagocytosis by monocytes as part of the pathogenesis. This review will discuss considerations when diagnosing the condition and available therapies. Infections and other causes of hemorrhage have to be excluded as these require different treatment strategies. Methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide remain the most commonly used therapies. Plasmapheresis and rituximab are other beneficial treatment options. A few studies have also considered intrapulmonary Factor VII therapy, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mesenchymal stem cell therapy. There is an unmet need of better definition of diffuse alveolar hemorrhages etiology and pathology for development of improved treatment strategies.

[Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in children]

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a clinical syndrome with major clinical manifestations of hemoptysis, anemia, and diffuse infiltration in the lung. DAH has a high mortality rate in the acute stage and is a life-threatening emergency in clinical practice. Compared with adult DHA, childhood DHA tends to have a specific spectrum of underlying diseases. It has long been believed that idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis (IPH) is the main cause of childhood DAH; however, with the increase in reports of childhood DAH cases, the etiology spectrum of childhood DAH is expanding. The treatment and prognosis of DAH with different etiologies are different. This review article gives a general outline of childhood DAH, with focuses on DAH caused by IPH, systemic lupus erythematosus, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-related vasculitis, COPA syndrome, or IgA vasculitis.

Pulmonary manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren syndrome are chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorders that can present with multiorgan involvement including the lungs. This review will focus on recent literature pertaining to the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and diagnosis and management of SLE and Sjögren syndrome-associated pulmonary conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pulmonary manifestations of both disease entities have been well characterized and lung involvement can be observed during the course of the disease in most cases. Pulmonary manifestations of SLE and Sjögren syndrome can be classified based on anatomical site of involvement; and the large and small airways, lung parenchyma, lung vasculature, pleura and respiratory muscles can be involved. The pleura is most commonly involved in SLE, whereas the airways are most commonly involved in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Sleep disturbances have also been described in both entities.

SUMMARY

Although further research into treatment strategies for the pulmonary complications seen in SLE and pSS is needed, the clinician should be aware of the risk factors and clinical presentation of the various pulmonary complications in SLE and pSS in order to identify patients who should be screened and/or have modifications in treatment strategies to mitigate the morbidity and mortality associated with these complications.

[Pulmonary hemorrhage in rheumatic diseases]

In the article, we report the causes of pulmonary hemorrhage (PH) according to the literature data and own experience, with an emphasis on patients suffering from rheumatic diseases. Methods of diagnosis and modern approaches to the treatment of PH are analyzed.

Cytomegaloviral or Pneumocystis Jiroveci Pneumonia Increases Mortality in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Pulmonary Hemorrhage: Evidence from Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of cytomegaloviral or Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (CMV/PJP) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with pulmonary hemorrhage (PH).

METHODS

We retrospectively examined hospital records for 27 SLE patients with PH who received bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analyses. Clinical profile and mortality rates were compared between groups with and without CMV/PJP. Risk factors for PH-related mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 27 SLE patients with PH, 15 had pathogens from BALF samples, and 8 had CMV/PJP. Although CMV/PJP was treated, the RR for 90- and 180-day mortality rates of SLE patients with CMV/PJP were higher than those without these infections (5.94, 95% CI 1.44-24.48; 7.13, 95% CI 1.81-28.06, respectively). Risk factors for 90- and 180-day mortality were presence of CMV/PJP (OR 14.2, 95% CI 1.83-109.9; OR 25.5, 95% CI 2.91-223.3, respectively) and use of pulse methylprednisolone for PH treatment (OR 12.0, 95% CI 1.48-97.2; OR 8.5, 95% CI 1.13-63.9, respectively). Factors increasing the 90-day mortality rate were duration of mechanical ventilation exceeding 14 days (OR 11.1, 95% CI 1.11-112.0) and use of aggressive immunosuppression close to PH onset (OR 7.56, 95% CI 1.09-52.4). Three of the 7 patients receiving aggressive immunosuppression died with the presence of CMV/PJP.

CONCLUSION

Owing to the high prevalence of CMV/PJP and its association with mortality, routine BALF analysis is recommended for all suitable SLE patients with PH. Use of aggressive immunosuppression does not benefit SLE patients with opportunistic infections during PH attack.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting with Alveolar Hemorrhage

Introduction

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage is a rare presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve outcome.

Case Report

An 18-year-old male presented with hemoptysis and respiratory distress requiring orotracheal intubation. Laboratory tests showed positive anti-nuclear antibody and anti-dsDNA and low C3 and C4. Bronchoalveolar lavage became progressively hemorrhagic after each aliquot. He was treated with pulse methylprednisolone, cyclophosphamide, and plasma exchanges.

Discussion

Alveolar hemorrhage is a rare initial presentation of lupus, with mortality rates reported at about 50%. Lupus should be considered in those presenting with alveolar hemorrhage since delay in therapy may cause a rapid deterioration of the patient. The diagnosis of SLE is illusive when DAH is the presenting symptom. Since early diagnosis and appropriate institution of treatment improve outcome, it is important to keep lupus in mind as an etiology of alveolar hemorrhage. Pulse methylprednisolone, cyclophosphamide, and plasmapheresis therapy resulted in rapid improvement of respiratory function in our patient.

Hémorragies intra-alvéolaires

L’hémorragie intra-alvéolaire (HIA), maladie rare, est une urgence thérapeutique, car elle peut conduire rapidement vers une insuffisance respiratoire aiguë asphyxiante avec décès. La triade, hémoptysie–anémie–infiltrat radiologique, suggère le diagnostic d’HIA, mais elle peut manquer dans deux tiers des cas, y compris chez des patients en détresse respiratoire. La tomodensitométrie thoracique peut aider dans les formes atypiques. Le diagnostic d’HIA repose sur la réalisation d’un lavage bronchoalvéolaire. Les étiologies en sont très nombreuses. Il importera de séparer, en urgence, les HIA d’origine non immune, avec un dépistage de celles d’origine septique qui doivent bénéficier d’une enquête microbiologique ciblée et cardiovasculaire avec la réalisation d’une échographie cardiaque, des HIA immunes (les vascularites liées aux anticorps anticytoplasme des polynucléaires neutrophiles, les connectivites et le syndrome de Goodpasture), avec la recherche d’autoanticorps et la réalisation de biopsies au niveau des organes facilement accessibles. La biopsie pulmonaire doit rester exceptionnelle. En cas d’HIA immune inaugurale, un traitement par stéroïdes et cyclophosphamide peut être débuté. Les indications du rituximab commencent à être mieux établies. Le bénéfice des échanges plasmatiques est débattu. En cas de réapparition d’infiltrats pulmonaires, chez un patient suivi pour une HIA immune, on s’efforcera d’écarter une infection dans un premier temps.

Severe Maternal Morbidity Associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Flare in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

Pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Here, we present a case of severe maternal morbidity in a 23-year-old primigravida with SLE and secondary Sjögren's syndrome who experienced a life-threatening multisystem flare at 17 weeks of gestational age. She presented to the emergency department complaining of cough with hemoptysis and shortness of breath. She developed hypoxic respiratory failure and was admitted to the intensive care unit. Bronchoscopy confirmed diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Physical exam and laboratory evaluation were consistent with an active SLE flare, pancytopenia, and new-onset lupus nephritis. After counseling regarding disease severity, poor prognosis, and recommendation for therapy with cytotoxic agents, she agreed to interruption of pregnancy which was achieved by medical induction. Her course was further complicated by thrombotic microangiopathy and generalized tonic-clonic seizures attributable to posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome versus neuropsychiatric SLE. This case represents one of the most extreme manifestations of lupus disease activity associated with pregnancy that has been reported in the literature and emphasizes the importance of preconception evaluation and counseling and a multidisciplinary management approach in cases with a complex and evolving clinical course.

Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage without Extrapulmonary Manifestations: A Rare Presentation of Lupus

Patient: Female, 31

Final Diagnosis: Lupus DAH

Symptoms: Shortness of breath

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: —

Specialty: Pulmonology

A fatal case of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage as the initial presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report and literature review

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare fatal pulmonary complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The clinical syndrome is characterized by hemoptysis, acute fall in hematocrit, hypoxemic respiratory failure, and diffuses pulmonary infiltrates. We describe a case of 23-year-old female who presented with Ludwig's angina that was complicated by diffuse alveolar hemorrhage as the initial presentation of undiagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus. A high index of suspicion is need for prompt diagnosis and treatment in order to avoid the high mortality associated with such cases.

Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in Autoimmune Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present paper establishes a narrative and analytical review of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in ANCA-associated vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and antiphospholipid syndrome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies found a frequent association between DAH and infections and systemic lupus erythematosus and its associated factors. Biological therapies like rituximab have demonstrated benefit mainly in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis. Main clinical manifestations of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in these three diseases include dyspnea, pulmonary infiltrates, cough, and hypoxemia. The presence of hemorrhagic bronchoalveolar lavage, hemosiderin containing macrophages, or an increase of carbon monoxide diffusing capacity have been described in some series as helpful findings for the diagnosis. Hemoptysis has been seen mainly in systemic lupus erythematosus. The cornerstone of therapy includes glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide, and recent findings in ANCA-associated vasculitis suggest the similar benefit of rituximab. Future evaluations and systematic reviews will help to define the real benefit for therapies that appeared to be controversial at the moment.

Continous Rituximab treatment for recurrent diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphosholipid syndrome

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare but potentially fatal complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). DAH is typically characterized by hemoptysis, dyspnea, new infiltrates on chest x-rays or CT-scans and a drop in hemoglobin. DAH is seen in less than 2% of patients with SLE and carries a high acute mortality risk of up to 70–90%.

The current treatment of DAH is high-dose intravenous corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and extensive supportive care. Plasmapheresis is also often considered in the treatment.

A few case reports have described patients with SLE and DAH in whom a single series of Rituximab (RTX), a specific anti-CD20-antigen B-cell antibody, successfully has been used to treat DAH.

We here present the first case of a patient with combined SLE, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and recurrent DAH who was successfully controlled by continued treatment with RTX.