Pulmonary renal syndrome: a clinical review

The term “pulmonary renal syndrome” describes a clinical syndrome which is characterised by the presence of both diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and glomerulonephritis. It encompasses a group of diseases with distinctive clinical and radiological manifestations, as well as different pathophysiological processes. The most common diseases implicated are anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA)-positive small vessel vasculitis and anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease. Prompt recognition is required as respiratory failure and end-stage renal failure can rapidly occur. Treatment includes a combination of glucocorticoids, immunosuppression, plasmapheresis and supportive measures. The use of targeted treatments has significantly reduced mortality. Thus, an understanding of pulmonary renal syndrome is essential for the respiratory physician.