Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology. Women of childbearing age are affected approximately nine times more often than men. Its presentation and course are highly variable, ranging from mild to fulminant systemic disease. Any organ can be affected by SLE. Although less common than in other systems, such as the skin, joints, and kidneys, 40%–60% of SLE patients have gastrointestinal (GI) involvement. SLE can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. GI manifestations can be caused by SLE, medication-related side effects, or non-SLE causes including infection. This article reviews the most common types of GI involvement associated with SLE.

Systemic lupus erythematosus and antineutrocytic cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis overlap syndrome presenting mainly with alveolar hemorrhage: A case report and literature review

“…It is reported that SLE can involve multisystem, of which 40% to 60% of SLE patients can affect gastrointestinal tract. [ 15 ] However, further examination showed that the patient’s SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) score was only 2, and his complement was normal, which was not consistent with the flare of SLE. When SLE patients are accompanied by hematuria, abdominal pain, melena, and hemoptysis, it is not necessarily a recurrence of lupus.…”

The Progression of Lupus and Its Manifestation in Women Throughout Age

“…As of 2023, Lupus is still very common affecting over 1.5 million Americans annually with studies showing it most commonly affects women disproportionately compared to men with a 9:10 ratio. 1 Lupus may present multiple symptoms and vary in complications, which can include organ damage, inflammation, and pregnancy difficulties. While there is no current cure for lupus, it can be regulated with medications such as: hydroxychloroquine (antimalarial) and corticosteroids to manage and minimize the effects of symptoms.…”

“…Lupus affects 1.5 million Americans annually, with 16,000 new cases being documented each year. 1 However, it's nine times more common in women than in men and it often strikes during childbearing years. 2 Lupus is an inflammatory disease that occurs when the immune system targets and attacks its own tissues.…”

Severe Abdominal Pain and Multi-Organ Involvement in a Young Woman With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

“…Patients with SLE typically present with severe abdominal pain, which poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge [ 4 ]. Delayed diagnosis is common, particularly in patients receiving steroid or immunosuppressive therapy, as these treatments can mask the underlying clinical picture and lead to delayed diagnosis due to perforation or ischemia [ 5 ].…”