Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a Patient With Systemic Sclerosis: A Case of a Life-Threatening Complication

TL;DR

A 70-year-old woman with systemic sclerosis developed life-threatening ARDS due to aspiration pneumonia, likely caused by esophageal dilatation and reflux.

Contribution

This case highlights the link between esophageal complications in systemic sclerosis and severe respiratory outcomes.

Findings

The patient had significant esophageal dilatation, with a lower thoracic esophageal diameter of 3.5 cm.

ARDS was diagnosed as a result of aspiration pneumonia, likely due to esophageal reflux.

Aggressive anti-reflux measures may help prevent pulmonary complications in similar patients.

Abstract

Numerous pulmonary conditions, such as aspiration pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), may result from aspiration of gastric or oropharyngeal contents passing into the lower respiratory tract. ARDS is a type of diffuse lung injury that is distinguished by the abrupt onset of extensive pulmonary inflammation accompanied by the failure of multiple organ systems. Systemic sclerosis is an uncommon connective tissue disorder that presents with skin thickening, the etiology of which remains unknown. Esophageal luminal dilatation is observed in the distal third of the esophagus in most cases of systemic sclerosis. This dilatation is primarily attributed to the greater abundance of smooth muscle fibers in this area. Here, we present the case of a 70-year-old female patient who was diagnosed clinically with diffuse systemic sclerosis and fulfilled the 2013 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria. She had esophageal dilatation, with an esophageal luminal diameter measured at the upper, middle, and lower thoracic esophagus of 2.5 cm, 2.5 cm, and 3.5 cm, respectively. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to ARDS from aspiration pneumonia. Our patient’s complicated condition at the time of ICU admission with ARDS secondary to aspiration pneumonia was primarily due to esophageal dilatation and reflux. Aggressive anti-reflux pharmacotherapy and bed elevation may be beneficial in preventing pulmonary injury caused by aspiration. Esophageal complications are common in such patients and can have a substantial impact on the prognosis and quality of life. Regular medical attention is necessary to identify and manage any potential issues.

Figures