Goodpasture Syndrome
What is Goodpasture syndrome?
Goodpasture syndrome (GPS), also known as anti-glomerular basement membrane disease, is a rare autoimmune disease in which antibodies attack the basement membrane in the lungs and kidneys, leading to bleeding from the lungs and kidney failure.
Usually, the immune system makes antibodies to fight off germs. But with Goodpasture syndrome, the immune system mistakenly makes antibodies that attack the lungs and kidneys. It can be fatal if not quickly diagnosed and treated.
What are the causes?
Medical experts are not sure what causes this disease. It can run in families, so that genetics may play a role. The condition may occur because of a combination of other factors.
Factors that may increase the risk of Goodpasture syndrome include:
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as hydrocarbon solvents and the weedkiller paraquat
- Exposure to metallic dust
- Use of certain drugs, such as cocaine
- Tobacco smoking
- Viral infections
This disease most often occurs in people ages 20 to 30 or those older than age 60. It is more common in men. In some cases, bleeding in the lungs may occur. In most cases…
