From the Research
Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome (SCLS) is characterized by signs such as generalized edema, hypotension, hypoproteinemia, and hemoconcentration, which can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated promptly 1. The main signs of SCLS include:
- Sudden episodes of severe hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Edema (swelling) particularly in the extremities
- Weight gain due to fluid retention
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and muscle aches Laboratory findings typically show:
- Hemoconcentration with elevated hematocrit levels
- Hypoalbuminemia (low albumin levels in the blood)
- Sometimes monoclonal gammopathy The condition occurs when capillaries become abnormally permeable, allowing fluid and proteins to leak from the bloodstream into surrounding tissues, leading to a paradoxical situation of edema in tissues while the intravascular space becomes depleted, causing hypotension and potentially hypovolemic shock 2. Episodes can be triggered by:
- Viral infections
- Intense physical exertion
- May occur without any identifiable cause The condition can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated promptly, as severe cases can progress to multiple organ failure due to inadequate perfusion 3. Treatment typically involves:
- Aggressive fluid resuscitation
- Careful monitoring of fluid balance
- Sometimes intravenous immunoglobulin therapy to prevent recurrences 4, 5.