Respiratory function in patients with pemphigus vulgaris - a small clinical study.
Title | Respiratory function in patients with pemphigus vulgaris - a small clinical study. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2011 |
Authors | APALLA, Z., Chloros D., Argyropoulou P., Georgopoulos D., Patakas D., Spanos D., & Chaidemenos G. |
Journal | J Dermatol Case Rep |
Volume | 5 |
Issue | 1 |
Pagination | 1-4 |
Date Published | 2011 Mar 26 |
ISSN | 1898-7249 |
Abstract | BACKGROUND: Pemphigus vulgaris belongs to a group of rare, autoimmune, blistering disorders, requiring intensive immunosuppressive therapy. Lung infections are common in patients with pemphigus vulgaris.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate pulmonary function in patients with pemphigus vulgaris, in order to detect possible factors that might predispose PV patients to lung damage.METHODS: Ten patients first diagnosed with severe pemphigus vulgaris and 10 healthy individuals,were included in the study. Pulmonary function testing, blood gas analysis and quantification of α1-antitrypsin serum levels were performed.RESULTS: Mild reduction of CO diffusing capacity was recorded, compared to the mean predicted normal value. DLCOSB (single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity test) values did not significantly differ between patients with pemphigus vulgaris and healthy controls, while differences regarding DLCO/VA (VA: Alveolar Volume) were statistically significant. Alpha 1-antitrypsin serum levels were decreased (<2.0g/L) in 60% (6/10) of patients with pemphigus vulgaris and were found normal in none of the healthy controls.CONCLUSION: A mild reduction of pulmonary diffusing capacity was observed in patients with pemphigus vulgaris. |
DOI | 10.3315/jdcr.2011.1061 |
Alternate Journal | J Dermatol Case Rep |
PubMed ID | 21886757 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC3163349 |