[Malabsorption in systemic lupus erythematosus]

A 25-year-old man, who was admitted for evaluation of arthralgia and fever of 2-weeks duration, complained of a 10 kg weight loss during the previous weeks. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was diagnosed on the basis of leukopenia, LE cells, antinuclear antibodies, antibodies to double-stranded DNA, and arthritis, Malabsorption was diagnosed because of the finding of hypoalbuminemia, fat droplets in the feces, a pathological D-xylose test, and an appropriate X-ray image. Approximately half the patients with SLE develop minor expressions of gastrointestinal tract involvement, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Major manifestations, such as intestinal obstruction or perforation, ascites, peritonitis and pancreatitis have been reported with varying frequency. Despite the frequent association of SLE with gastrointestinal manifestations, malabsorption, as in this case, has rarely been reported.