A commonly used therapy for Goodpasture syndrome includes which modality?

• A. Beta-blockers
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Diuretics
• D. Plasmapheresis

Answer: (D)

Goodpasture syndrome is caused by autoantibodies against the glomerular and alveolar basement membranes, leading to rapid kidney injury and pulmonary hemorrhage. The central therapy is plasmapheresis because it physically removes those circulating anti-GBM antibodies from the blood, reducing ongoing immune attack on the kidneys and lungs. This approach is most effective when started early and is paired with immunosuppressive treatment (like steroids and cyclophosphamide) to prevent the production of new antibodies. Other options don’t address the underlying autoimmune process: beta-blockers, antibiotics, and diuretics may help with BP, infection, or fluid management, but they don’t remove pathogenic antibodies or halt the immune-mediated injury.