Shrinking lungs syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus: improvement with inhaled beta-agonist therapy

The pathogenesis and therapy of shrinking lungs syndrome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus remains controversial. It has been previously reported that corticosteroid treatment can be effective. We report a patient with shrinking lungs syndrome who presented a good response to inhaled beta-agonist therapy. Therapeutic approach to this syndrome is discussed.