Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis complicated with diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nawata, Takashi; Murakawa, Kaori; Shiragami, Kosaku; Shibuya, Masaki; Kubo, Makoto; Yano, Masafumi
• Is Part Of: SAGE open medical case reports. Volume 9(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis -- diffuse alveolar haemorrhage -- central nervous system vasculitis; Clinical medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 616.09
• DOI: 10.1177/2050313X211011814
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-313X

Abstract

Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis are life-threatening complications of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis. The simultaneous occurrence of diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis is a rare presentation of antibody-associated vasculitis. Its diagnosis by histopathology is difficult because biopsy is difficult to perform, and urgent treatment is needed. We report a case of a Japanese man with diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis associated with antibody-associated vasculitis. New classification criteria may be needed for diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis associated with systemic vasculitis. When antibiotic-resistant atypical bilateral pneumonia is noted in the acute phase of a cerebral stroke, with elements suggestive of vasculitis, clinicians should be aware that diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and central nervous system vasculitis may occur simultaneously.