What is Goodpasture's syndrome

Goodpasture's syndrome is defined as an autoimmune disorder. It is a rare disease which mostly affects the lungs and kidneys. Goodpasture's syndrome is characterized as an autoimmune reaction that deposits of antibodies in the membranes of both the kidneys and lung causing both inflammation of kidney and lung bleeding. Mostly it occurs in young males.
Glomerulonephritis - Pulmonary Hemorrhage, Membrane Antibody Disease, Anti-Glomerular Basement and Pulmonary Renal Syndrome are some alternative names of Goodpasture's syndrome.

Causes of Goodpasture's syndrome

The exact causes of this disease is still unknown. It is an autoimmune disorder that immune cells attack the body's own organs and results inflammation. It is also possible that disorder is triggered by a viral respiratory infection or by inhalation of hydrocarbon solvents. In that case the immune system may attack tissues because it mistakes them for these foreign chemicals.

Signs and Symptoms of Goodpasture's syndrome

Symptoms of Goodpasture's syndrome are given below-
1) Nonspecific chest pain
2) Weakness
3) Foamy urine
4) Dark colored urine
5) Cough with bloody sputum (coughing up blood)
6) Decreased urine output
7) Bloody urine
8) Nausea/vomiting
9) Pale skin
10) Difficulty breathing after exertion

Treatment of Goodpasture's syndrome

The main goal of treatment of Goodpasture's syndrome is to reduce progression of the disease. If treatment starts in earlier stages of the diseases then it is more effective. Cyclophosphamide or azathioprine are used to reduce immune system effects.

A procedure whereby blood plasma (which contains antibodies) is removed from the body and replaced with donated plasma or fluids may be performed daily for two or more weeks to remove circulating antibodies. It is more effective to slow the progression of this disorder.

Dialysis may be required if kidney function is poor. A kidney transplant also good method of treatment.

Prevention

There is no known prevention method of Goodpasture's syndrome. People should avoid the siphoning gasoline and glue sniffing. Avoid smoking, if a family history of renal failure exists, may prevent some cases. Early diagnosis and treatment may help to slow progression of the disorder.