Coexistence of human immunodeficiency virus infection and systemic lupus erythematosus

A variety of rheumatic disorders has been reported during the course of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection; however, its association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is extremely rare. The effect of HIV infection on CD4 lymphocytes may ameliorate SLE activity and spur remission. We observed 2 patients with SLE who later developed HIV infection. Both patients' lupus went into remission, and their course was complicated by aseptic necrosis of the bone. These findings suggest that HIV infection may have an important effect on the natural course of SLE and may also have a pathogenic role in avascular necrosis.