A Concomitant Diagnosis of COVID-19 Infection and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated by a Macrophage Activation Syndrome: A New Case Report
April 2021
in “
International Journal of Dermatology
”
Studysummary This case report documented a 25-year-old female patient presenting with systemic lupus erythematosus coinciding with a COVID-19 infection, suggesting a possible link between the two conditions.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
A 25-year-old female with no prior medical history was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and COVID-19, complicated by macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). The patient presented with a rash, myalgias, asthenia, and fever, and was found to have positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA and immunological markers indicative of SLE. The case highlighted the potential for SARS-CoV-2 to trigger SLE, as both conditions share similar cytokine profiles. The patient was treated with steroids and COVID-19 therapy, resulting in clinical improvement. The report emphasized the need for careful diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms and recommended follow-up for accurate SLE/COVID-19 diagnosis.
