Development of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Following Interferon-α Therapy for Hepatitis C Infection

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Hepatology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) therapy is a known treatment for chronic hepatitis C.
• IFN-α treatment has been linked to the de novo development of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Observation:

• A 48-year-old woman with chronic hepatitis C completed pegylated interferon-alpha treatment.
• Two months post-treatment, she presented with fever, arthralgia, mouth ulcers, dyspnea, cough, and pleuritic chest pain.

Findings:

• Clinical presentation and immunological investigations strongly suggested a diagnosis of SLE.
• The patient's symptoms were consistent with drug-induced lupus erythematosus secondary to IFN-α therapy.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for IFN-α to induce SLE in susceptible individuals.
• Early recognition and management with corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine are crucial for favorable outcomes in drug-induced SLE.