A Toddler Presenting with Pulmonary Renal Syndrome

Abstract

Pulmonary renal syndrome refers to an association of pulmonary and glomerular disease and includes disorders, such as the ANCA-associated vasculitides, anti-glomerular basement membrane antibody disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein purpura). We present the medical history of a 26-month-old boy with an extensive purpuric rash, involving the limbs, trunk, and face, who developed clinically significant pulmonary hemorrhage and renal involvement. Rapid recognition of this rare but potentially life-threatening condition is crucial. In this report, we discuss the differential diagnosis, diagnostic studies, and treatment options to consider when facing a young child presenting with a pulmonary renal syndrome.