Goodpasture’s Syndrome

Goodpasture’s syndrome is a rare disease that affects lungs and kidneys. As all autoimmune diseases, the body’s own defense system reacts against some part of the body itself.

Under normal conditions, the immune system creates antibodies to attack and keep germs away. In goodpasture’s syndrome, however, these antibodies attack lungs and kidneys.

The goodpasture’s syndrome can last as little as 2 weeks or as long as several years, but does not usually lead to permanent damage to the lung tissues. However, kidney tissue seems to be more sensitive to goodpasture’s syndrome, and as a result damage to it can last a long time.

Causes Of Goodpasture’s Syndrome

The exact cause of goodpasture’s syndrome is unknown. It is an autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system is attacking the body itself, more specifically a protein chain known as type IV collagen that is present in lungs and kidneys.

It is suspected to be the result of a combination of certain genetic disorders and an external factor that acts as a trigger. Many factors can act as trigger, from a viral infection to the inhalation of gasoline fumes or hydrocarbon solvents. Cigarette smoke is also suspected to be a trigger for goodpasture’s syndrome.

Symptoms Of Goodpasture’s Syndrome

Goodpasture’s syndrome’s symptoms may include foamy, bloody, or dark urine, in conjunction with a burning sensation when expelling it, decreased urine output, regular episodes of cough, often with bloody sputum, difficulty to breathe, weakness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, noticeable weight loss, chest pain and pale skin.

Laboratory findings will show the presence of protein in the urine. Diagnosis is confirmed by performing a lung or (more frequently) kidney biopsy.

Treatment Of Goodpasture’s Syndrome

Treatment of the goodpasture’s syndrome focuses on limiting the immune system’s ability to make antibodies. This is accomplished by using cyclophosphamide, prednisone and other corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs.

This treatment is often complemented with a process called plasmapheresis, which removes the harmful antibodies already present in the blood. The plasmapheresis process consists on removing antibody-rich plasma from blood and replacing it with donated plasma or other fluids.

If the disease has reached the point in which there is severe damage to the kidneys, dialysis may be required.

Prevention Of Goodpasture’s Syndrome

There is no known prevention of Goodpasture’s syndrome. Avoiding inhalation of glue, gasoline and its fumes can help. Quitting smoking may prevent some cases if a history of lung and renal failure exists in the family.

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