Journal List > J Rheum Dis > v.18(2) > 1063899

Shin, Seo, Cho, Choi, Lee, and Baek: Two Cases of Necrotizing Fasciitis in Patients with SLE

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an uncommon, life-threatening infection of the subcutaneous tissue and superficial fascia. The clinical course of NF is rapid and progressive, and it is often fatal despite the appropriate therapy. The prognosis of NF depends on a timely diagnosis and then proper treatment. At onset it may not be possible to clearly dis-tinguish NF from minor soft-tissue infections. Although infection are common due to the use of steroids and immunosuppressive agents in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), it is interesting that NF has rarely been reported with SLE. Here, we present two cases of NF with SLE.

References

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Figure 1.
There are edematous changes and skin color changes on the right lower leg.
jrd-18-132f1.tif
Figure 2.
A hypointensive signal is seen in the anterior, lateral and posterior compartments (Right lower leg T1 image: A, white arrow). Thickening and enhanced fasciitis lesion is seen in the anterior, lateral and posterior compartments (T2 image: B, black arrow). Edematous change and enhanced myositis is seen in the tibialis anterior muscle (white arrow) and the extensor digitorum muscle (black arrow) (T2 image: C).
jrd-18-132f2.tif
Table 1.
Comparisons of case 1 and case 2
  Case 1 Case 2
Age 40 years 50 years
Current medication Prednisolone 10 mg/day Prednisolone 40 mg/day
Physical exam Right leg edema and the skin color was red to purple Both leg edema of both legs and the skin color was red
Laboratory results
  Hemoglobin (g/dL) 13.1 8.2
  Leukocyte count (mm3) 19,580 15,740
  Platelets (mm3) 55,000 174,000
  BUN (mg/dL) 15.5 44.7
  Cr (mg/dL) 0.8 1.6
  Treatment Antibiotics Antibiotics
  Fasciotomy Fasciotomy
  Immunoglobulin  
Outcome Lived Expired
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