Cytomegalovirus-induced flare of systemic lupus erythematosus

Exacerbations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may be brought about by a number of factors, including stress, surgery, or infection. By interacting with immunologic mediators or by producing immune complexes, infections may exacerbate underlying autoimmune diseases such as SLE. This illustrative case report describes a woman who had SLE for 20 years who contracted cytomegalovirus mononucleosis that induced an exacerbation of her SLE.