Critical peripheral ischemia precipitated by severe episode of Raynaud's phenomenon in a patient with aPL-positive systemic lupus erythematosus, upon high titer anti-RNP seroconversion. (March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Levy, O; Maslakov, I; Vosco, S; Markov, A; Amit-Vazina, M; Tishler, M
• Is Part Of: Lupus. Volume 24:Number 3(2015)
• Page Start: 327
• Page End: 330
• Publication Date: 2015-03
• Subjects: Anti-RNP antibodies -- critical peripheral ischemia -- Raynaud's phenomenon -- anticardiolipin antibodies; Systemic lupus erythematosus -- Periodicals; 616.772005
• DOI: 10.1177/0961203314560427
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-2033

Abstract

A 35-year-old female with long standing aPL-positive lupus without history of thromboembolic events, who has developed critical peripheral ischemia (CPI) is described. An episode of severe Raynaud's phenomenon rapidly progressed to an extensive digit-threatening ischemia, involving bilateral hands and feet. She was successfully treated with corticosteroids, anticoagulation, iloprost, sildenafil, and nifedipine. Her serological studies were remarkable for the emergence of high titer anti-RNP seroconversion and an increase in aPL titer, suggesting that these autoantibodies played a role in the pathogenesis of CPI. It is important to note that such observation should herald this potentially devastating complication of systemic lupus erythematosus.