Which pair of organs is involved in Goodpasture’s syndrome: March 2010
**Core Concept**
Goodpasture's syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) antibodies. This leads to the destruction of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) in the kidneys and the alveolar basement membrane in the lungs.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The anti-GBM antibodies target the alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen in the GBM and alveolar basement membrane, leading to inflammation and damage. The kidneys are primarily affected, resulting in rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN), while the lungs are affected, causing pulmonary hemorrhage.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The liver is not typically involved in Goodpasture's syndrome.
**Option B:** The heart is not directly involved in the disease process of Goodpasture's syndrome.
**Option C:** The pancreas is not associated with Goodpasture's syndrome.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Goodpasture's syndrome is often associated with a positive anti-GBM antibody test, which is a key diagnostic feature. The presence of these antibodies indicates the need for immunosuppressive therapy to prevent further kidney and lung damage.
**Correct Answer:** A. Kidneys and lungs