What question did this study set out to answer?

This report aims to highlight acute lupus pneumonitis as a rare presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus.

March 21, 2026Open Access

Acute Lupus Pneumonitis: An Uncommon Initial Presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus—A Case Report

Key Points

This report aims to highlight acute lupus pneumonitis as a rare presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus.
Case report of a 48-year-old female patient.
Evaluation of respiratory symptoms such as fever and dyspnea.
High-resolution CT scan showing bilateral pleural effusions.
Autoimmune tests demonstrating positive antinuclear and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies.
Treatment with systemic corticosteroids after diagnosis.
Diagnosis of acute lupus pneumonitis was confirmed after ruling out infections.
The patient showed significant clinical improvement post corticosteroid therapy.
Findings stress the need for quick recognition and treatment of this condition.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Acute lupus pneumonitis is a rare but potentially life‐threatening pulmonary manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, often presenting with nonspecific respiratory symptoms. We report a case of a 48‐year‐old female who presented with fever, dyspnea, and pleuritic chest pain. High‐resolution computed tomography of the chest revealed bilateral pleural effusions. Autoimmune serologic testing showed strongly positive antinuclear antibody and anti‐double‐stranded DNA antibodies. After exclusion of infectious and alternative autoimmune etiologies, a diagnosis of acute lupus pneumonitis was made. The patient showed marked clinical improvement following systemic corticosteroid therapy. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition and prompt immunosuppressive treatment to improve clinical outcomes.

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