Co-Existence of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Celiac Disease: A Case Report

This case report describes an 18-year-old girl diagnosed with the rare co-existence of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Celiac Disease. She presented with symptoms including chronic diarrhea, photosensitive skin rash, oral ulcers, alopecia, and iron deficiency anemia. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of both conditions, with positive anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies and characteristic intestinal biopsy findings for Celiac Disease, and a score of 6 on the SLICC criteria for SLE. Treatment involved a gluten-free diet, steroids, and hydroxychloroquine, leading to significant clinical improvement and weight gain. The report emphasizes the need for high clinical suspicion to diagnose co-existing autoimmune disorders and calls for further research to understand their prevalence.