Journal of clinical rheumatology : practical reports on rheumatic & musculoskeletal diseases
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Pleuritis is the most common pulmonary manifestation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In Thailand, the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) is high; moreover, treatment with immunosuppressive agents increases the risk for TB infection. ⋯ Lupus pleuritis is still the most common cause of pleural effusion in SLE and often reflects its disease activity. The diagnosis of lupus pleuritis is a clinical diagnosis or is performed by excluding other conditions. The treatment outcomes of lupus pleuritis are generally good.