Systemic lupus erythematosus in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection--challenges in diagnosis and management

Clin Rheumatol. 2004 Apr;23(2):166-9. doi: 10.1007/s10067-003-0833-z. Epub 2004 Feb 14.

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is mainly a disease of young women. The problem of coexistent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a growing problem in sub-Saharan Africa. We describe a case of active life-threatening neuropsychiatric lupus in a patient with underlying HIV infection. The challenges of interpreting physical signs and laboratory features that are common to both conditions, and the dilemma of treating active SLE with cytotoxics in the immunocompromised patient, are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • HIV Infections* / complications
  • HIV Infections* / diagnosis
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System* / complications
  • Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System* / diagnosis
  • Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System* / drug therapy