The 'shrinking lungs syndrome'--an infrequently recognised feature of systemic lupus erythematosus

Aust N Z J Med. 1990 Feb;20(1):67-70. doi: 10.1111/j.1445-5994.1990.tb00375.x.

Abstract

Two cases of the 'Shrinking Lungs Syndrome' in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are described to highlight an infrequently recognised feature of this condition. Respiratory muscle weakness, improved by steroid therapy, was demonstrated in each patient and considered to be the mechanism underlying the respiratory symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breath Tests
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung Diseases / etiology*
  • Lung Diseases / physiopathology
  • Lung Volume Measurements
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Radiography
  • Respiratory Muscles / physiopathology

Substances

  • Prednisolone