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Necrotizing fasciitis in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Mohammad Kamran1, Jane Wachs, Chaim Putterman
1Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
|June 16, 2007
Summary
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe infection that can occur in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early recognition and treatment are crucial for better outcomes in these high-risk individuals.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) increases infection risk due to disease activity and immunosuppressive therapies.
- Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressive soft tissue infection with high morbidity and mortality.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of NF are critical for favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- This study reviewed 8 cases of NF in SLE patients from 1994 to the present.
- All patients were on steroid therapy; 7 exhibited hypoalbuminemia and lymphopenia.
- Lupus nephritis was noted in patients who experienced fatal outcomes.
Findings:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon but severe complication in SLE patients.
- Patients with NF and SLE presented with specific laboratory abnormalities.
- Mortality was observed in 37.5% of the studied SLE patients with NF.
Implications:
- Heightened clinical awareness for NF in SLE patients is essential.
- Immunosuppressed SLE patients require vigilant monitoring for infections.
- Early detection and intervention can improve survival rates for NF in SLE.
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