Shrinking Lung Syndrome: A Case Report

Shrinking Lung Syndrome (SLS) is an uncommon complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLS is a diagnosis of exclusion with features of dyspnea ruled out by other causes using imaging and diagnostic studies, pleuritic chest pain, and elevated diaphragm. Currently, there are many theories of the etiology; however, there is no clear pathogenesis, conclusive treatment, and preventative measures. We report a case of a 41-year-old woman with SLE admitted for pleuritic chest pain with unclear cause of shortness of breath. After CTA chest study, laboratory, chest x-ray, and pulmonary function test we were able to appropriately diagnose her with SLS and treat her with steroids as per limited current research guidelines.