Diffuse intrapulmonary hemorrhage, renal failure and a systemic vasculitis. A case report and review of the literature.

A 63 year old women was hospitalized with massive hemoptysis, anemia and renal failure. Despite intensive supportive care, she died soon after admission. Autopsy revealed diffuse necrotizing alveolitis, rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and a systemic vasculitis. Massive intrapulmonary hemorrhage with hemoptysis is an unusual complication of a systemic vasculitis. The case is discussed and the literature reviewed.