Primary Presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Pulmonary embolism (PE) as the first clinical manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an unusual and rare presentation. This case report discusses a 30-year-old male who presented with chest pain and hypoxemia at a hospital in Dubai. Initial workup revealed elevated D-dimer levels and a positive CT pulmonary angiogram confirming PE. The patient’s medical history was unremarkable, except for a recent transient leg discomfort. Upon further investigation, hypoalbuminemia and proteinuria suggested nephrotic syndrome. A thorough autoimmune evaluation revealed elevated anti-dsDNA antibodies, leading to a diagnosis of SLE nephritis. This case emphasizes the necessity of considering SLE as a differential diagnosis for young patients with unexplained thrombotic events, even in the absence of traditional SLE symptoms. Treatment and early recognition are important in managing thrombotic complications in SLE.
Authors: Naima Fellak, Kareem Kamil Mohamed, Hussein Saleh
Institution: Dubai Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Rheumatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4403359857