A Case with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated with Multifocal Osteoarticular Tuberculosis / 대한류마티스학회지

ABSTRACT

Infection is a frequent problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Infections contribute greatly to the morbidity of patients and are one of the commonest causes of death. The high frequency and unusual spectrum of infections can be attributed to the multiple disturbances of immune function in SLE in combination with the effects of immunosuppressive therapy. There is increasing evidence to indicate that opportunistic infections including tuberculosis make a large contribution to the infectious mortality in SLE. Tuberculosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in our country where tuberculosis is still endemic. The indolent nature of tuberculous bone and joint disease often leads to delayed or missed diagnosis, sometimes with devastating consequences for the patient. We report a case of multifocal and complicated osteoarticular tuberculosis developing in the spines and knee joint due to delayed diagnosis, with review of literatures.