SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS COMPLICATED BY ISCHAEMIC STROKE AND DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS IN A NIGERIAN LADY

Oguamanam Okezie Enwere* and Angelita Mariae Obodo

ABSTRACT

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with varied presentation associated with increased morbidity and mortality in those affected. Also, SLE is associated with higher risks of strokes and DVT than the normal population. Materials and Methods: We report the case of a 39years old Nigerian lady who presented with an ischaemic stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosed as having SLE. Result: A 39years old Nigerian lady who was taken to a prayer house after she fell at home and noticed to be weak on the right limbs. She stayed here for a week, subsequently developing quadriplegia, multiple pressure sores and sepsis before being taken to a hospital. At the first hospital she had a CT brain which confirmed a left ischaemic stroke, positive anti-dsDNA antibodies and positive fibrin degradation products. She was then referred to us for further care. Conclusion: Strokes can occur commonly in SLE especially with coexisting risks as hypertension. Also, immobility and SLE makes risk of DVT to be exaggerated. Prompt and appropriate treatment is cardinal to reducing morbidity and mortality in SLE.

Keywords: Systemic lupus erythematosus, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, Nigeria, Lady.