A RARE CASE OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN A 20-YEAR-OLD MALE PATIENT

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi-system autoimmune disease characterized by a series of exacerbations and remissions. The disease involves antibody formation against DNAand nuclear proteins, which attack tissues of multiple-organ systems. SLE is 8 to 15 times more common in women of reproductive age compared with age-matched men. Being rarer in males, it can result in delayed diagnosis leading to poorer outcomes. When compared to women, men have a more aggressive clinical course and rapid development of organ damage, which leads to a worse prognosis. Studies have shown that male patients have an increased prevalence of cytopenia, hemolytic anaemia, nephritis, thrombotic events and seizures. This is why prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the progression of the disease. We report a case of SLE in a young male patient who presented with fever, joint pain, easy fatigability and oral ulcers. Prompt diagnosis and comprehensive laboratory workup can help an alert primary care physician be instrumental in ensuring better outcomes.