Systemic lupus erythematosus due to Epstein-Barr virus or Epstein-Barr virus infection provocating acute exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus?

Kasapcopur O., Ergul Y., Kutlug S., Candan C., Camcioglu Y., Arisoy N.

RHEUMATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, vol.26, no.8, pp.765-767, 2006 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 26 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2006
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s00296-005-0063-6
  • Journal Name: RHEUMATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.765-767
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rheumatologic disease characterized by an inflammatory destruction of the target organ systems of the body in an unknown way by autoantibodies formed against self-antigens. Infectious agents like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus and parvovirus B19 may have a role in the occurrence or the exacerbation of the SLE. In this report, the clinical follow-up of a 14-year-old girl diagnosed with SLE following an EBV infection with bicytopenia, lymphadenomegaly and hepatomegaly is discussed. This case could support the role of viral infections in the etiology of SLE.