Lung findings in systemic lupus erythematosus

BACKGROUND: The most common symptoms and signs of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are lesions of the skin and mucous membranes, joint pains, fever and fatigue. Organ lesions are found inter alia in the kidneys, lungs and central nervous system. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We investigated the lung and pleura findings of one hundred SLE patients treated during 1996-2004 at the Oulu University Hospital. RESULTS: Lung and pleural lesions were found in 25% of the patients; pulmonary infections in 13%, pleural lesions in 9%, interstitial pulmonary diseases in 4% and pulmonary hypertensions in 3%. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary infections and pleural lesions were the most common findings.