Autoamputation in a 45-Year-Old Female with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Overlap with Systemic Sclerosis: A Case Report

    Alexander So, Cheryl Anne A Dela Cruz-Tan, Jessie Orcasitas
    TLDR Early recognition and tailored treatment are crucial for managing overlapping systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis.
    This case report describes a 45-year-old female with an overlap of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), who experienced autoamputation of digits, a rare complication of SSc. Initially diagnosed with SLE, she presented with symptoms like alopecia and joint pains, and was treated with prednisone and hydroxychloroquine. After discontinuing hydroxychloroquine due to side effects, she developed symptoms of SSc, including skin tightness and digit deformities. Her condition worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a diagnosis of SSc. Treatment with prednisone and mycophenolate mofetil resulted in significant improvement. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of SLE-SSc overlap and the importance of early recognition and tailored treatment strategies.
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