What is a significant pulmonary complication observed in SLE?

Pulmonary hypertension is a significant pulmonary complication observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE can lead to changes in the pulmonary vasculature, resulting in increased blood pressure in the vessels that supply the lungs. This condition may develop due to various mechanisms related to the disease, including inflammation, autoantibody production, and changes in the vascular endothelium. The presence of pulmonary hypertension can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and even right heart failure, making it a serious concern for patients with SLE.

In contrast, while inflammation of the lungs, pneumonia, and asthma can occur in individuals with SLE, they are not as directly tied to the systemic effects of SLE itself. Inflammation of the lungs tends to relate more to infections or other inflammatory diseases rather than being a direct consequence of the systemic condition. Pneumonia, while a complication in all patients, is more commonly associated with risk factors such as immunosuppression rather than being a characteristic pulmonary manifestation of SLE. Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways but is generally regarded as a separate respiratory disorder and is not specifically linked to SLE complications. Therefore, pulmonary hypertension stands out as a notable and serious