Goodpasture's Syndrome

Question 1

What two pathologies co-exist in Goodpasture’s syndrome?

Answer 1

Acute glomerulonephritis
Pulmonary alveolar haemorrhage

Question 2

What is Goodpasture’s syndrome also called?

Answer 2

Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease.

Question 3

What is the pathology in Goodpasture’s syndrome?

Answer 3

Autoimmune disease triggered by a type 2 hypersensitivity reaction, in which diffuse pulmonary haemorrhage and glomerulonephritis results.

May be accompanied by AKI/CKD. Will have anti-GBM antibodies.

Question 4

How does Goodpasture’s syndrome present?

Answer 4

Typically seen in context of AKI, with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, accompanied by pulmonary haemorrhage. This may be life-threatening.

Question 5

What do bloods show in Goodpasture’s syndrome?

Answer 5

anti-GBM antibodies - this is diagnostic.

Question 6

How is Goodpasture’s syndrome treated?

Answer 6

Plasmapheresis (removes anti-GBM antibodies)
Immunosuppression (e.g. prednisolone)

Question 7

Why may immunosuppression help in Goodpasture’s syndrome?

Answer 7

It will prevent further antibody production.