Gout and hyperuricaemia in systemic lupus erythematosus

Coexistent gout and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have received increasing attention. An additional case is reported and published cases reviewed. Common clinical features of this group include nephritis, diuretic and corticosteroid therapy and a tendency to be older and more frequently male. Prevalence of hyperuricaemia (HU) was assessed in 38 patients with SLE. HU was found in 29% and was closely associated with renal involvement particularly proteinuria and diuretic therapy. The presentation of gout in SLE may be modified or suppressed by anti-inflammatory therapy and may be misinterpreted as SLE arthritis.