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Periarticular calcification in systemic lupus erythematosus.
H Sugimoto1, K Hyodoh, M Kikuno
1Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical School, Tochigi-ken, Japan.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|March 25, 1999
Summary
Periarticular calcifications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were observed in finger joints. Diuretic use was significantly associated with these calcifications, suggesting a link to crystal-associated arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Radiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Periarticular calcification is a recognized, though uncommon, manifestation in SLE.
- Understanding radiologic findings and associated clinical factors is crucial for patient management.
Observation:
- A retrospective analysis of 52 SLE patients was conducted.
- Hand radiographs were reviewed for periarticular calcifications.
- Clinical data, including laboratory values and medication use, were analyzed.
Findings:
- Periarticular calcifications were identified in 13.5% of SLE patients, primarily around the DIP, PIP, and MCP joints.
- No significant association was found with age, disease duration, sex, or common SLE-related complications.
- A significant association (p < 0.01) was noted between periarticular calcification and the use of furosemide, a diuretic.
Implications:
- Periarticular calcification in SLE patients may be linked to diuretic therapy.
- Crystal-associated arthritis should be considered in SLE patients on diuretics presenting with oligoarthritis.
- Further investigation into the mechanism of diuretic-induced calcification in SLE is warranted.