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Hypertrichosis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
M Santiago1, A C Travassos, M C Rocha
1Escola de Medicina e Saúde Pública, Salvador Bahia, Brazil. mitter@svn.com.br
Clinical Rheumatology
|June 28, 2000
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause hypertrichosis, or excessive eyelash growth, in young patients. This rare manifestation may stem from the immunological defects inherent in SLE.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems, including skin, joints, and the central nervous system.
- Hypertrichosis, specifically of the upper eyelashes, is a rare clinical finding.
- This condition has been previously observed in various immunocompromised states such as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), malnutrition, cancer, and kala-azar.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old female patient diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) presented with hypertrichosis affecting her upper eyelashes.
- The patient's SLE involved cutaneous, articular, and central nervous system manifestations.
Findings:
- The occurrence of hypertrichosis in an SLE patient suggests a potential link between the autoimmune disease and this dermatological symptom.
- The exact pathogenic mechanism remains unclear, but it is hypothesized to be related to the immunological dysregulation characteristic of SLE.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but notable association between SLE and hypertrichosis, expanding the spectrum of known clinical manifestations.
- Further research into the immunological underpinnings of SLE may elucidate the mechanisms behind this unusual presentation.
- Recognizing this association could aid clinicians in the comprehensive evaluation of SLE patients presenting with unexplained hypertrichosis.