Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by multisystem involvement, in which pulmonary manifestations may develop during the disease course. Pulmonary involvement may affect the pleura, lung parenchyma, vasculature, airways, or diaphragm and presents with a broad clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic findings to life-threatening conditions. In this review, the available evidence regarding the treatment of SLE-related pulmonary involvement was evaluated through a systematic literature search. According to the current literature, no randomized controlled trials specifically addressing the treatment of lupus-related pulmonary involvement are available. Treatment strategies are largely based on observational studies and expert opinion. Although corticosteroids are reported to be effective as first-line therapy across all patterns of pulmonary involvement, evidence regarding the optimal dose and duration of corticosteroid therapy, as well as the role of second-line immunosuppressive and biologic agents, remains limited. Prospective and controlled studies are needed to establish evidence-based, pattern-specific treatment approaches.
Keywords:
Systemic lupus erythematosus, pulmonary involvement, diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, interstitial lung disease, pleural involvement, shrinking lung syndrome
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