Thoracic Computed Tomography Features of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

PURPOSE. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive description of the thoracic computed tomographic imaging features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). MATERUALS AND METHODS. Given the broad spectrum of possible intra-thoracic presentations, this article details the computed tomography (CT) imaging features based on anatomical systems. RESULTS. Pulmonary manifestations of SLE include pleuritis (with or without effusion), pneumonitis, infection (particularly in patient's immunosuppressive therapy), interstitial lung disease, alveolar hemorrhage, and a possible increase in risk of lung cancer. Pulmonary vasculature system disease due to SLE include pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary embolism. Cardiovascular manifestations of SLE include pericardial effusion, pericarditis, and vasculitis diseases (coronary vasculitis or aortitis). Disorders of the muscular structures and diaphragm due to SLE include weakness of the respiratory muscles and the shrinking lung syndrome. CONCLUSION. Involvement of thoracic structures-pulmonary, cardiovascular, and respiratory musculature, is commonly encountered in patients with SLE. These organ systems are affected by the presence of disease through various pathogeneses. When SLE patients experience respiratory symptoms, chest pain, or other manifestations of thoracic discomfort, CT is an excellent tool to carry out important investigations into the cause of symptoms, to identify structural abnormalities that have occurred, and the planning of further management.