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05:07
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Intestinal ischemia in systemic lupus erythematosus
Michael G Lee1, Karlene Hagley, Karel Decuaelar
1Department of Medicine, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica. michael.lee@uwimona.edu.jm
Journal of the National Medical Association
|July 4, 2008
Summary
Bowel ischemia is a rare but serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early suspicion and combined immunosuppressive therapy are crucial for managing this severe condition in SLE patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can lead to various organ-specific complications.
- Bowel ischemia is an uncommon yet severe manifestation of SLE, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old female with a history of SLE presented with two months of intermittent abdominal pain, escalating to acute, severe pain and vomiting.
- Abdominal CT imaging confirmed ischemia affecting multiple segments of the bowel.
Findings:
- Initial treatment with methylprednisolone alone yielded a slow response.
- Combination therapy with methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide resulted in a favorable outcome.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion for bowel ischemia is essential in SLE patients experiencing acute abdominal pain.
- Prompt diagnosis and aggressive immunosuppressive therapy, potentially including cyclophosphamide, are vital for managing SLE-associated bowel ischemia.
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