Goodpasture syndrome is a rare and life-threatening autoimmune condition that can affect the lungs and kidneys.  When the immune system functions properly, antibodies work to fight off germs and infections.  Goodpasture syndrome is a perplexing disorder that represents the opposite effect whereas the immune system creates antibodies that actually attack the lungs and kidneys.  People with Goodpasture syndrome will typically have a shortness of breath and feel fatigue; more severe symptoms will follow such as coughing up blood, extreme difficulty in urinating and blood in the urine. In some cases, a dangerous build-up of blood can occur in the lungs.  There are many complicated factors involved in testing for the disorder as well as treating it and among some is a genetic factor.  Goodpasture syndrome can now be diagnosed with a special blood test, and in some cases, through a kidney biopsy.  Treatment is available using immunosuppressive drugs and for some the disorder can be cured in a matter of a few weeks, while for others, it can last for up to two years.

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