What is chronic lupus pneumonitis?

Chronic lupus pneumonitis is a serious lung inflammation that slowly builds up over a period of years. In a person with lupus, the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing a variety of inflammation throughout the body. Chronic lupus pneumonitis is one type of inflammation lupus can cause.

Symptoms of the condition include:

•Chest pain
•Shortness of breath
•Dry cough that may bring up blood

Chronic lupus pneumonitis is similar to another condition called acute lupus pneumonitis. Acute lupus pneumonitis occurs suddenly, unlike chronic lupus pneumonitis, which develops over time.

A person with chronic lupus pneumonitis may have had acute lupus pneumonitis at an earlier point, but not necessarily. Often the disease takes so long to develop that the initial symptoms might not be recognized or noticed.

Steroid medications can help treat a current inflammation, but any scarring that develops will remain permanently. It is important to talk to a doctor immediately if you experience any unfamiliar lung pains or symptoms. Chronic lupus pneumonitis can be treated if caught early.