Treatment Options For Goodpasture Syndrome

Intravenous Corticosteroids

In many cases, Goodpasture syndrome isn't diagnosed until the symptoms become life-threatening. Before the lungs begin bleeding and the kidneys start to shut down, the main symptom of Goodpasture syndrome is fatigue. Because the syndrome is so rare, and since fatigue is a symptom of countless conditions, it's uncommon for Goodpasture syndrome to be diagnosed early enough to avoid progression. If a patient's lungs are bleeding, intravenous corticosteroids may be a necessary measure. Corticosteroids are fast-acting, anti-inflammatory drugs. Since they calm inflammation throughout the body, these medications are prescribed for multiple different diseases with flareups. Corticosteroids can't be used to prevent the lungs from bleeding, but they can be used to control bleeding that already exists. Intravenous use is done in emergency cases when the effect needs to occur immediately. After the patient's condition has stabilized, most medical professionals recommend stopping the use of the corticosteroids for as long as possible.

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