Systemic lupus erythematosus serositis

The imaging appearances of a case of systemic lupus erythematosus, which manifested initially as a serositis, is described. Barium small bowel study showed segments of spiculation with tethering, angulation, and obstruction. On computed tomography there was ascites and segments of asymmetrical thickening of small bowel wall were observed. Laparotomy revealed extensive patchy serosal and peritoneal plaques but biopsy of these lesions did not lead to a definitive diagnosis. The diagnosis was made on the basis of marked elevation of antinuclear and anti-double stranded DNA antibodies.