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Published on: November 1, 2015
Systemic lupus erythematosus and Crohn's disease: a case report
Antonia María Fernández Rodríguez1, Inmaculada Macías Fernández, Natalia Navas García
1Sección de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cádiz, España. amfernandezr@yahoo.es
Reumatologia Clinica
|November 29, 2011
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with gastrointestinal issues may have undiagnosed Crohn's disease. Evaluation for Crohn's is recommended for SLE patients experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with diverse clinical presentations.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations can occur in SLE but are often non-specific.
- Distinguishing between SLE-related GI issues and other conditions is clinically important.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old woman with known SLE presented with abdominal pain and diarrhea.
- Clinical evaluation and laboratory tests did not indicate an active SLE flare.
- Colonoscopy and biopsy were performed due to persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.
Findings:
- Colonoscopy revealed findings consistent with inflammatory bowel disease.
- Microscopic examination of biopsy samples confirmed the diagnosis of Crohn's disease.
- The patient was diagnosed with both SLE and Crohn's disease, a rare co-occurrence.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Crohn's disease in SLE patients with unexplained GI symptoms.
- Gastrointestinal manifestations in SLE warrant thorough investigation beyond attributing them solely to the autoimmune disease.
- Early diagnosis of co-existing Crohn's disease can lead to appropriate management and improved patient outcomes.
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