Bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia as an initial manifestation in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: a rare presentation
Recommended Citation
Jatwani S, Handa R, Jatwani K, and Chugh K. Bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia as an initial manifestation in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: a rare presentation. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-26-2018
Publication Title
BMJ Case Rep
Abstract
Bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia as an initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rare and uncommon presentation. We describe a case of SLE presenting with shortness of breath, found to have pneumothorax, bilateral nodular infiltrates along with pleural effusions and pericardial effusion. Work-up suggested a diagnosis of active SLE with anaemia, thrombocytopenia, positive antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and positive anti-double-stranded DNA. On retrospective review of patient records, from 8 years prior to presentation, lung biopsy histology consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia with positive ANA serology was found, without any further autoimmune work-up. In our opinion, bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia was the index presentation of SLE. Treatment with steroids and subsequent management with immunosuppressive therapy could have prevented subsequent hospitalisations. Prompt work-up for autoimmune diseases should be considered in patients with positive ANA and histological evidence of bronchiolitis obliterans organising pneumonia.
Medical Subject Headings
Aged, 80 and over; Antibodies, Antinuclear; Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia; Humans; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic; Male; Pericardial Effusion; Pleural Effusion; Pneumothorax
PubMed ID
29804073
Volume
2018
