Severe aortic incompetence caused by systemic lupus erythematosus. A case report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with potential multi-organ involvement.
• Cardiac manifestations of SLE can include valvular heart disease, often leading to significant morbidity.
• Aortic incompetence is a recognized but less common cardiac complication in SLE patients.

Observation:

• A patient with a confirmed 3-year history of articular SLE presented with severe, uncontrolled heart failure.
• The heart failure was attributed to significant aortic incompetence, a complication linked to their underlying autoimmune condition.
• Standard medical management for heart failure proved insufficient for this patient.

Findings:

• The patient underwent successful aortic valve replacement surgery.
• Post-operative recovery was positive, with resolution of heart failure symptoms.
• This case highlights the potential for SLE to directly impact aortic valve integrity.

Implications:

• Aortic valve replacement can be a viable and effective treatment for heart failure secondary to aortic incompetence in SLE patients.
• Early recognition and management of cardiac complications are crucial in the comprehensive care of SLE.
• This case underscores the importance of considering SLE as a potential cause of valvular heart disease.