[Salmonella enteritidis arthritis complicating systemic lupus erythematosus].

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
• Immunosuppressive therapy, including corticosteroids, is common in SLE management.
• Septic arthritis is an uncommon but serious complication in immunocompromised patients.

Observation:

• A 23-year-old male with newly diagnosed SLE presented with fever and monoarthritis of the left elbow.
• The patient was undergoing high-dose corticosteroid treatment for SLE manifestations including skin lesions, hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and glomerulonephritis.
• No new signs of active systemic lupus erythematosus were noted during the joint infection episode.

Findings:

• Bacteriological examination confirmed Salmonella enteritidis as the causative agent of septic arthritis.
• The patient showed clinical improvement following antibiotic therapy and joint lavage.
• Salmonella enteritidis septic arthritis occurred during the active phase of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Implications:

• Feverish monoarthritis in SLE patients should raise suspicion for septic arthritis.
• Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in SLE-associated septic arthritis.
• This case underscores the importance of considering infectious etiologies in SLE patients presenting with new joint symptoms.