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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
12:04
The bm12 Inducible Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: November 1, 2015
Severe hypercalcemia and systemic lupus erythematosus
C Gazzaruso1, C M Montecucco, D Geroldi
1Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Maugeri Foundation Hospital, University of Pavia, Italy.
Joint Bone Spine
|January 6, 2001
Summary
Severe hypercalcemia can be linked to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Early SLE diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing bone loss and managing hypercalcemia in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Hypercalcemia is an uncommon but serious complication that can occur in patients with SLE.
- The underlying mechanisms linking SLE and hypercalcemia are not fully understood.
Observation:
- A young woman presented with severe hypercalcemia and photosensitivity, but initial SLE diagnostic criteria were insufficient.
- Extensive investigations excluded other common and rare causes of hypercalcemia, and skeletal radiographs were normal.
- One year later, the diagnosis of SLE was confirmed, coinciding with the development of severe osteopenia and chest deformities.
Findings:
- Treatment of SLE effectively normalized persistent hypercalcemia.
- Recurrent mild elevations in calcium levels correlated with SLE disease flares.
- A potential mechanism involves stimulatory anti-PTH receptor antibodies in SLE patients with hypercalcemia.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering SLE in patients with unexplained severe hypercalcemia.
- Early diagnosis and management of SLE can prevent significant bone loss and skeletal complications.
- Effective SLE treatment is vital for controlling hypercalcemia and mitigating risks associated with osteopenia, such as fractures and treatment limitations with glucocorticoids.
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