ALVEOLAR HEMORRHAGE IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATIC DISEASE

Alveolar hemorrhage is an uncommon event that is associated with sever al underlying disorders, many of which are immunologically mediated. C areful evaluation of basic laboratory tests, extrapulmonary physical f indings, and serology usually leads to the correct diagnosis. Signific ant overlap exists, however, and pathologic (especially immunopatholog ic) evaluation of pulmonary or renal biopsies may be necessary. An acc urate diagnosis is essential because treatment is best when directed a t the underlying diagnosis. Supportive therapy may be needed until the underlying disease is diagnosed and specific therapy is initiated.