[Systemic lupus erythematosus and hyper-IgE syndrome in a 13-year-old child]

In 1979, suspicion of convulsive disorder was diagnosed in a 9-year-old girl, who consequently underwent treatment with carbamazepine. In 1983, she developed hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome. IgE values reached up to 5,400 u/ml. During the following weeks, we detected systemic lupus erythematosus with epimembranous glomerulonephritis histologically proved. The patient's immunological status does not allow the decision whether the lupus erythematosus may be classified as idiopathic or as a drug-induced disease having started with the convulsive disorder. Discontinuation of the carbamazepine therapy will not give a further hint on the etiology of the lupus erythematosus since long-lasting anticonvulsive therapy using this drug leads to an irreversible course of the disease.