Most often, pleurisy results from viral and bacterial infections like pneumonia and the flu. Other infectious causes of pleurisy include Epstein-Barr virus EBV), skin infections, food poisoning and sepsis. Autoimmune diseases, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to pleurisy. In these instances, your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy lung tissue. Other diseases, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, HIV or AIDS, or sickle cell anemia, can cause pleuritis. Additionally, chest trauma, such as bruised or fractured ribs, can cause the pleura to become inflamed.