[Case of necrotizing enteritis as the first symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus]

The aim of this work is to describe a case of necrotising enteritis as a first presentation of a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The patient has undergone two laparatomies with resection of a part of the small intestine because of a clinically relevant intestinal obstruction. Distended intestinal loops, inflammed serosa and mesenterial lymphadentis have been found during the operations. The histological examination has proved phlegmonous enteritis with hyperplasia of the lymph follicles and infiltration with plasmocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils. Numerous biochemical, immunological, microbiological, ultrasound and X-ray investigations have not been helpful for the diagnosis. The appearance of a nephrotic syndrome in the course of the disease and the consequent renal biopsy have led to confirmation of the diagnosis SLE. The immunosupressive and corticosteroid treatment have resulted in fully recovery of the patient.