Abstract
Respiratory lesions in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are relatively
common. Pleurisy (pleuritis) is a frequent pulmonary disease in SLE. Sometimes
interstitial pneumonia (IP, lupus pneumonia), alveolar hemorrhage, and pulmonary
infarction are seen. Pleurisy is usually mild but can sometimes be a severe refractory
disease. Interstitial lung disease includes acute IP due to SLE and chronic pulmonary
fibrosis. Diaphragmatic dysfunction is also seen. Some cases become chronic after
acute lupus pneumonia. Alveolar hemorrhage can be a cause of death depending on the
degree. Pulmonary infarction is not uncommon in SLE. This chapter provides an
overview of respiratory involvement in SLE.
Keywords: Diaphragmatic dysfunction, Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH), Lupus pneumonitis, Pleuritis, Respiratory involvement, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).