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The bm12 Inducible Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in C57BL/6 Mice
12:04

The bm12 Inducible Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in C57BL/6 Mice

Published on: November 1, 2015

[Cryptococcal meningitis and systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report and review]

Antonio G Tristano1

  • 1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Dr. Domingo Luciani, Caracas, Venezuela. mjtristano@cantv.net

Revista Chilena De Infectologia : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Chilena De Infectologia
|June 18, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Cryptococcal meningitis is a rare but serious complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early recognition and treatment are crucial for better outcomes in these complex cases.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Rheumatology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease.
  • Cryptococcal meningitis is a fungal infection of the central nervous system.

Observation:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis is an uncommon but fatal complication of SLE.
  • Clinical signs of cryptococcal meningitis can mimic SLE activity, complicating diagnosis.
  • A case of cryptococcal meningitis in an SLE patient successfully treated with amphotericin deoxycholate is presented.

Findings:

  • A literature review identified 57 cases of SLE with cryptococcal meningitis.
  • Simultaneous onset of both conditions was rare, occurring in only three reported cases.
  • The temporal association suggests SLE-related immune dysfunction predisposes to fungal infections.

Implications:

  • This association highlights the need for heightened vigilance for opportunistic infections in SLE patients.
  • Understanding immune defects in SLE may offer insights into preventing mycotic infections.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment of cryptococcal meningitis are vital for improving survival rates in SLE patients.

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