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Overlapping clinical features of lupus and leptospirosis

Cheryl Barnabe1, Nicole Fahlman

  • 1Division of Rheumatology, University of Calgary, Area 5A, 1301 3350 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary T2N 2T9, Canada. ccbarnab@ucalgary.ca

Clinical Rheumatology
|January 15, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can mimic infectious diseases like leptospirosis, causing misdiagnosis. Recognizing atypical autoimmune disease features is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Internal Medicine
  • Rheumatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and infectious diseases can present with overlapping systemic manifestations.
  • Misdiagnosis can lead to delayed treatment and adverse patient outcomes, including significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that can mimic autoimmune conditions.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with severe renal failure and liver involvement, initially diagnosed and treated for leptospirosis.
  • Subsequent evaluation revealed that the patient's organ involvement was due to active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Findings:

  • Clinical and laboratory features of SLE and leptospirosis can be similar, posing a diagnostic challenge.
  • This case highlights the importance of considering both infectious etiologies and autoimmune diseases in patients with multi-organ involvement.
  • Atypical presentations of SLE require careful consideration, especially in patients with relevant exposure history.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for infectious organisms in patients with a travel history.
  • Recognizing atypical features of systemic autoimmune diseases like SLE is vital for appropriate management.
  • Differentiating between infectious and autoimmune causes of organ dysfunction is critical for effective patient care and preventing complications.

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