Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology
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Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol · Apr 2002
ReviewHow to manage patients with cardiopulmonary disease?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a connective tissue disease characterized by the formation of autoantibodies and immune complexes. The heart and lungs are among the organ systems commonly affected in SLE. Pericarditis, premature coronary atherosclerosis, pleuritis and pulmonary infections are the most prevalent cardiopulmonary manifestations. ⋯ Current imaging modalities may provide earlier detection of subclinical disease, which may aid in preventing these potentially fatal complications. The response to treatment varies, depending on the presentation of disease. In this chapter we address the frequency, diagnosis and monitoring, and treatment regimens of cardiac and pulmonary involvement in patients with SLE.