Capillary Leak Syndrome

Systemic capillary leak syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by massive leakage of plasma and other blood components from blood vessels into neighboring body cavities and muscles.

This leads to swelling. Also known as Clarkson’s disease. If treatment is not done massive fluid shifts result in loss of blood pressure which can lead to organ failure and death.

Signs and symptoms of systemic capillary leak syndrome include:

• sudden swelling of the arms
• legs and other parts of body
• rapid drop in blood pressure
• shock
• lightheadedness
• weakness
• fatigue and
• nausea

There are no known causes exists which lead to systemic capillary leakage syndrome but, it occurs after upper respiratory tract infection. This syndrome is not an inherited one.

A study reports that chemicals in the body that damage or separate the endothelial cells lining from the capillary walls. This separation allows the walls to become leaky.

Diagnosis of capillary leak syndrome starts with close physical examination of the patient and history of illness.

Doctor may also suggest the following tests to establish the diagnosis of systemic leakage syndrome:

• Blood test- to check for level of plasma, albumins, red blood cells, presence of distinct monoclonal protein.
• Urine tests- decreased dark urine, monoclonal protein in urine.

Several treatment methods are used for systemic capillary leak syndrome.

Systemic leakage syndrome causes complex problems involving many organs and organ systems. Episodes of these symptoms are very sudden although sometimes certain warning signs can alert patient.

An episode may include sudden drop in blood pressure. If not treated promptly, this can lead to multiple organ failure resulting in death.

Treatment options include:

Fluids- carefully controlled concentration are given intravenously to compensate fluid loss and prevent dehydration.

Medications- steroids, water pills, immunoglobulin and other drugs. Long-term course of medication is prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of future episodes.

There are no known preventive measures which can stop the episode or prevent systemic capillary leakage syndrome.

There are no alternatives and home remedies to treat systemic capillary leakage syndrome.

Lifestyle modifications are necessary in order to cope with systemic capillary leak syndrome.

Chronic treatment is the only way to provide treatment in systemic capillary leak syndrome.

Medications should not be skipped.

Time to time consultation with doctor will help improve the treatment and provide better healing.

There are several risks and complications associated with systemic capillary leak syndrome.

Systemic capillary leak syndrome can occur in any person. Fluid may collect in heart, lungs and soft tissues causing a potentially life-threatening situation. Fainting due to rapid drop in blood pressure from fluid leakage.

Circulatory hypoxia may develop and lead to tissue hypoxia.

In severe cases organ failure may occur leading to patient’s death.