These antibodies trigger inflammation that interferes with kidney and lung function. Presumably, they're the direct cause of the disease. Symptoms and Diagnosis A person with this disease typically develops shortness of breath and coughs up blood. At the same time, the kidneys can rapidly fail. Laboratory tests show the characteristic antibodies in the blood.
Urine testing shows blood and protein in the urine.
Anemia often is present. A chest x-ray shows abnormal areas in both lungs. A kidney tissue needle biopsy shows microscopic deposits of antibodies in a specific pattern. The disease may lead to death very rapidly. High doses of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide may be given intravenously to suppress the activity of the immune system.