Fatal pulmonary venoocclusive disease secondary to a generalized venulopathy: a new syndrome presenting with facial swelling and pericardial tamponade

Arthritis Rheum. 1991 Feb;34(2):228-33. doi: 10.1002/art.1780340217.

Abstract

We describe a patient who developed fatal pulmonary artery hypertension secondary to diffuse venulitis. This otherwise healthy young woman first presented with generalized venulopathy, with chemosis, facial swelling, pleural effusions, and pericardial tamponade. The symptoms partially responded to steroid therapy, but over a 2-year course, a rapidly progressive and fatal venoocclusive disease developed. No other primary condition was diagnosed, and at autopsy, the patient had striking venulitis throughout, including the pulmonary bed. We believe that this is a unique case of pulmonary hypertension resulting from a generalized venulopathy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cardiac Tamponade / etiology*
  • Edema / etiology
  • Face
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pulmonary / etiology*
  • Pleural Effusion / etiology
  • Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease / complications*
  • Syndrome
  • Vascular Diseases / complications*