CT features of systemic lupus erythematosus in patients with acute abdominal pain: emphasis on ischemic bowel disease

Multisystem diseases in the abdomen and pelvis: imaging manifestations and diagnostic roles of cross-sectional imaging

Systemic diseases, such as IgG4-related disease, sarcoidosis, and amyloidosis, usually involve multiple systems or organs simultaneously or sequentially. The gastrointestinal tract, hepatobiliary system, and genitourinary tract are commonly involved in many multisystem diseases and can also be the first sites with disease involvement. Cross-sectional imaging, such as CT and MR, plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of multisystem diseases by aiding in the evaluation of multiorgan involvement. Here, common imaging features of frequently affected organs are reviewed in multisystem diseases that we often encounter in the abdomen and pelvis, and the diagnostic roles of cross-sectional imaging for these diseases are also discussed.

Clinical features, imaging findings, and outcomes of acute abdominal pain in systemic lupus erythematosus: comparing mesenteric vasculitis, non-mesenteric vasculitis, and surgical conditions

OBJECTIVES

To determine the spectrum, clinical features and outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with acute abdominal pain (AAP).

METHOD

Medical records of SLE patients in a lupus cohort from January 1987 to June 2023 were reviewed. Patients with AAP requiring hospitalization were identified and categorized into 3 groups: lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV), non-LMV, and surgical AAP. Each AAP episode represented one patient.

RESULTS

Of 1,538 patients in the cohort, 62 (4.03%) had 93 episodes of AAP. After exclusion, 31 patients had 39 LMV episodes, and 30 had 40 non-LMV episodes (19 due to surgical AAP). Seventy-six of the 79 AAP episodes (96.20%) were in females, with a mean ± SD age and median (IQR) disease duration of 36.76 ± 13.60 years and 6 (2, 9) years, respectively. Patients in the LMV group had more fever, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea than those in the non-LMV group. They also had more small bowel involvement, bowel wall thickening, target water enhancement signs, mesenteric vessels engorgement and mesenteric fat cloudiness, and higher SLE disease activity. These differences were more pronounced when compared to the surgical AAP group. Treatment with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs gave favorable outcomes in the LMV group. Two of 40 (5.00%) non-LMV AAP patients died, of which 1 (5.26%) was in the surgical AAP group.

CONCLUSION

LMV was common among SLE patients admitted for AAP. LMV usually presented with fever, gastrointestinal dysmotility symptoms, diffused abdominal pain, together with evidence of active disease. Localized abdominal pain with peritoneal signs favored surgical AAP. Key Points • Lupus mesenteric vasculitis is common among SLE patients presenting with acute abdominal pain. Its presence often associates with gastrointestinal symptoms together with other clinical manifestations of SLE • The signs in abdominal computed tomography findings are not specific and could be observed in other causes of abdominal pain in SLE. Interpretation of these signs should be cautionary and accompanied by history taking and physical abdominal findings • Treatment of lupus mesenteric vasculitis with corticosteroids alone, or in combination with immunosuppressive drugs, usually results in good outcomes.

Severe lupus enteritis: A diagnostic and therapeutic enigma

Lupus enteritis refers to the gastrointestinal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It presents with diverse symptoms that frequently overlap with those of other acute abdominal conditions, posing diagnostic challenges. We describe an adolescent female, with lupus pancreatitis and nephritis, who later developed severe lupus enteritis during the course of her illness. She was treated with pulse methylprednisolone and intravenous cyclophosphamide and gradually improved over 3 weeks. Our case highlights the need to consider lupus enteritis in patients with severe pain abdomen and intractable vomiting. Presence of lupus pancreatitis and nephritis are risk factors for development of enteritis.

Diffusely Infiltrative Small Bowel Disease

Multiple infiltrative disorders can affect the small bowel, often resulting in diffuse small bowel wall thickening. These infiltrative disorders can manifest owing to various factors such as an influx of immunologic or neoplastic cells or the accumulation of substances within one or more layers of the intestinal wall. Although there can be considerable overlap in the appearances of infiltrative diseases on cross-sectional images, a comprehensive understanding of more specific ancillary imaging features and clinicopathologic correlation can substantially narrow the differential diagnosis. The radiologist can be instrumental in synthesizing the clinical and imaging information and guiding subsequent workup. The authors present a comprehensive review of the infiltrative disorders that commonly involve the small bowel. These disorders are organized on the basis of their pathophysiologic features, with multiple illustrative case examples to enhance understanding of these entities. CT and MRI are currently the most commonly used imaging modalities for evaluating small bowel disorders, and this review is focused on these two modalities. Detailed information regarding the pathologic features, clinical presentation, and imaging findings of these infiltrative disorders is provided to aid radiologists in recognizing and differentiating these conditions. ©RSNA, 2024.

Recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic approaches for digestive system involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of large amounts of autoantibodies and immune complex formation. Because of their atypical clinical symptoms, SLE patients with digestive system involvement may not be recognized or treated precisely and extensively. Clinicians should pay close attention to SLE with digestive system involvement, as these conditions can easily worsen the condition and possibly endanger the patient's life. In this review we summarized the pathogenesis, pathological characteristics, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and therapies for digestive system involvement in SLE.

Lupus enteritis: a narrative review

Lupus enteritis (LE) is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus. The pathophysiology of LE has not been fully elucidated, although inflammatory and thrombotic processes are likely important factors. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms may depend on which portion of the intestine is affected. Over half of the patients with LE also present with renal or haematological complications. The diagnosis of LE is based on clinical, histopathological and imaging findings; abdominal computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard in diagnosis. Abdominal CT can also identify factors that predict complications and could potentially guide pharmacological and nutritional management. Timely identification and prompt treatment initiation are paramount to avoid life and organ threatening complications. Glucocorticoids are often the first-line treatment. Additional therapy including immunosuppressive therapy is utilised on a case-by-case basis as there are no clinical trials to define the optimal therapeutic approach. Surgical intervention may be needed especially if there is bowel perforation or peritonitis. In general, the prognosis of LE is good.

Lupus enteritis: A 10-year experience in a single Latin American center

OBJECTIVE

The objective is to compare the clinical and laboratory characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with and without lupus enteritis (LE) and to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of LE.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, case-control study in hospitalized patients with SLE who were admitted to our tertiary hospital between January 2012 and December 2021. Sixteen LE patients (cases) were matched (1:3 ratio) for sex and birth year with 48 non-LE patients (controls). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify the variables associated with LE.

RESULTS

Of 2,479 SLE patients who were admitted to our hospital as inpatients, 16 (0.65%) were diagnosed as having LE. All patients, cases and controls, were of Mestizo ethnicity. SLE was diagnosed simultaneously with the first episode of LE in 10 (62.5%) patients. The median time from SLE diagnosis to the first episode of LE was 7 (IQR 0-78) months. LE patients had a shorter median disease duration [7 (0-78) vs 34 (9.5-79) months], and a significantly longer hospital stay (28.3 ± 15.8 vs 6.5 ± 7.9 days, p < 0.001) than non-LE patients. Most LE patients (93.8%) had concomitant lupus nephritis. LE patients had higher SLEDAI-2K scores than those without LE (20.5 ± 9.4 vs 9.8 ± 10.4, p < 0.001). By multivariable analysis, a higher SLEDAI-2K score (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.18; p = 0.015) was independently associated with LE occurrence after adjusting for cutaneous involvement, lymphocyte count, serum creatinine, and serum complement C4. Recurrence was observed in two patients (12.5%), both with a bowel wall thickening > 8 mm. The two patients with large intestine-dominant LE developed intestinal pseudo-obstruction. No patient had life-threatening complications (intestinal hemorrhage, infarction, or perforation), and there were no deaths induced directly by LE itself.

CONCLUSION

In patients of Mestizo ethnicity, LE occurs during the early course of SLE, frequently is one of the presenting manifestations of SLE, and in most cases, it presents with concomitant lupus nephritis. Higher levels of disease activity at diagnosis were independently associated with LE occurrence and when recurrences occur, they do so in the context of severe wall thickness.

Gastrointestinal Involvement in Children with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disorder. When it presents before the age of 18 years (childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, cSLE), the disease course tends to be more severe with a higher rate of organ involvement and requires an early diagnosis. Gastrointestinal involvement in cSLE is rare and scarcely reported in the literature. Any organ of the gastrointestinal system may be affected, either as a direct consequence of the disease, as a subsequent complication, or as an adverse drug event. Abdominal pain is the most common GI symptom, it can be diffuse or well localized, and can underline different conditions such as hepatitis, pancreatitis, appendicitis, peritonitis, or enteritis. cSLE may have an alteration of the intestinal barrier with features of protein-losing enteropathy or, in genetically predisposed patients, may develop associated autoimmune disorders such as Coeliac Disease or Autoimmune Hepatitis. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a narrative review of gastrointestinal manifestations in cSLE focused on hepatic, pancreatic, and intestinal involvement. A comprehensive literature search based on the PubMed database was performed.

Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology. Women of childbearing age are affected approximately nine times more often than men. Its presentation and course are highly variable, ranging from mild to fulminant systemic disease. Any organ can be affected by SLE. Although less common than in other systems, such as the skin, joints, and kidneys, 40%–60% of SLE patients have gastrointestinal (GI) involvement. SLE can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. GI manifestations can be caused by SLE, medication-related side effects, or non-SLE causes including infection. This article reviews the most common types of GI involvement associated with SLE.

Imaging of intestinal vasculitis focusing on MR and CT enterography: a two-way street between radiologic findings and clinical data

Diagnosis of intestinal vasculitis is often challenging due to the non-specific clinical and imaging findings. Vasculitides with gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations are rare, but their diagnosis holds immense significance as late or missed recognition can result in high mortality rates. Given the resemblance of radiologic findings with some other entities, GI vasculitis is often overlooked on small bowel studies done using computed tomography/magnetic resonance enterography (CTE/MRE). Hereon, we reviewed radiologic findings of vasculitis with gastrointestinal involvement on CTE and MRE. The variety of findings on MRE/CTE depend upon the size of the involved vessels. Signs of intestinal ischemia, e.g., mural thickening, submucosal edema, mural hyperenhancement, and restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted imaging, are common in intestinal vasculitis. Involvement of the abdominal aorta and the major visceral arteries is presented as concentric mural thickening, transmural calcification, luminal stenosis, occlusion, aneurysmal changes, and collateral vessels. Such findings can be observed particularly in large- and medium-vessel vasculitis. The presence of extra-intestinal findings, including within the liver, kidneys, or spleen in the form of focal areas of infarction or heterogeneous enhancement due to microvascular involvement, can be another radiologic clue in diagnosis of vasculitis. The link between the clinical/laboratory findings and MRE/CTE abnormalities needs to be corresponded when it comes to the diagnosis of intestinal vasculitis.

Predictive model of risk and severity of enteritis in systemic lupus erythematosus

INTRODUCTION

To describe the clinical and laboratory features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) enteritis and to establish a predictive model of risk and severity of lupus enteritis (LE).

METHODS

Records of patients with SLE complaining about acute digestive symptoms were reviewed. The predictive nomogram for the diagnosis of LE was constructed by using R. The accuracy of the model was tested with correction curves. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) program and a Decision curve analysis (DCA) were used for the verification of LE model. Receiver operating characteristic curve was also employed for evaluation of factors in the prediction of severity of LE.

RESULTS

During the eight year period, 46 patients were in the LE group, while 32 were in the non-LE group. Abdominal pain, emesis, D-dimer >5 μg/mL, hypo-C3, and anti-SSA positive remained statistically significant and were included into the prediction model. Area under the curve (AUC) of ROC curve in this model was 0.909. Correction curve indicated consistency between the predicted rate and actual diagnostic rates. The DCA showed that the LE model was of benefit. Forty-four patients were included in developing the prediction model of LE severity. Infection, SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), CT score, and new CT score were validated as risk factors for LE severity. The AUC of the combined SLEDAI, infection and new CT score were 0.870.

CONCLUSION

The LE model exhibits good predictive ability to assess LE risk in SLE patients with acute digestive symptoms. The combination of SLEDAI, infection, and new CT score could improve the assessment of LE severity.

A multisystem syndrome compatible with systemic lupus erythematosus: Case report and review of literature

Background:

Abdominal pain is a routine symptom. Mesenteric arteritis, intestinal vasculitis, enteric vasculitis, mesenteric vasculitis, lupus peritonitis, and abdominal serositis are the possible differential diagnoses. Therefore, lupus enteritis has an uncertain outbreak.

Case Presentation:

A 27-year-old woman presented with clinical presentation of peritonitis suggestive of acute abdominal crisis with three days history of fever, bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and seizure. Further work up revealed microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, proteinuria, polyserositis and her initial autoimmune panel all were negative. Since SLE was at the top of our diagnosis, we considered glucocorticoid and cyclophosphamide pulse therapy. After approximately two months of her initial presentation, when all of her symptoms subsided by initial therapy, her antinuclear antibody became positive at 1:320 titers and renal biopsy was compatible with lupus nephritis (stage III).

Conclusion:

It is crucial to take the diagnosis of lupus into consideration, in case of any young female with multiorgan involvement even without positive antibody tests. As in this case, it took more than two months after initial presentation to confirm the diagnosis via renal biopsy and only after then, serum autoantibodies became seropositive.

A nomogram to predict the risk of lupus enteritis in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with gastroinctestinal involvement

BACKGROUND

Lupus enteritis (LE), a main cause of acute abdominal pain in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, is a serious and potentially fatal complication. This study aimed to identify clinical serological indicators to establish a nomogram to assess LE in SLE patients with gastrointestinal manifestations.

METHODS

The clinical and laboratory data of SLE patients with gastrointestinal manifestations that were hospitalized in the West China Hospital from January 2010 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression model was used to select potentially relevant features. Subsequently, a nomogram was developed using multivariable logistic analysis. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic curve, a calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

FINDINGS

We included a total of 8,505 SLE patients, of which 251 had experienced gastrointestinal manifestations. The patients were randomly divided into training (n = 176) and validation (n = 75) groups. The LRA (LE Risk Assessment) model consisted of 11 significantly associated variables, which included complement 4, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, albumin, anion gap, age, d-dimer, platelet, serum chlorine, anti-Sjögren's-syndrome-related antigen A, anti-ribosomal P protein, and anti-ribonucleoprotein. In the training and validation cohorts, the areas under the curve were 0.919 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.876-0.962) and 0.870 (95% CI: 0.775-0.964), respectively. The nomogram demonstrated excellent performance in the calibration curve and DCA.

INTERPRETATION

The LRA model exhibits good predictive ability in assessing LE risk in SLE patients with gastrointestinal manifestations.

Clinico-Laboratory Features and Associated Factors of Lupus Mesenteric Vasculitis

Introduction

Lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV) is a rare but potentially life-threatening clinical entity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients.

Objective

The present study was initiated to explore the clinical features and associated factors of LMV in SLE patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on 50 cases of SLE patients with lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV) from January 2010 to December 2019 and 89 cases of non-LMV-SLE patients with similar demographic and comorbidities were included as control. All the data regarding clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment were reviewed independently by two experts in the field. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the associated factors of LMV.

Results

The incidence of LMV was 2.9% among hospitalized SLE patients in the current study. The most frequent symptom and physical sign of LMV were respectively abdominal pain (48, 96%) and abdominal tenderness (45, 90%). Through univariate and subsequent multivariate analysis, oral ulcer (OR, 4.25; P = 0.024), urinary tract involvement (OR, 5.23; P = 0.021), and elevated D-dimer (OR, 1.121; P = 0.008) were demonstrated to be positively associated with LMV, while percentage of lymphocytes (OR, 0.928; P = 0.004) and complement 3 (OR, 0.048; P = 0.008) were negatively correlated with LMV.

Conclusions

Oral ulcer, urinary tract involvement, reduced percentage of lymphocytes and complement 3, elevated D-dimer could be associated factors for LMV in SLE patients.

Systemic lupus erythematosus gastrointestinal involvement: a computed tomography-based assessment

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) gastrointestinal (GI) complication is characterized by multi-segment and multi-compartment involvement. The aim of this study is to develop a computed tomography (CT) image-based system for disease evaluation. SLE patients with GI involvement from two independent cohorts were retrospectively included. Baseline abdominal CT scan with intravenous and oral contrast was obtained from each individual. A CT scoring system incorporating the extent of GI tract involvement and intestinal wall thickness, along with extra-GI compartment involvement, was developed and validated. The outcome measurement was the time to GI functional recovery, defined as the time to tolerable per os (PO) intake ≥50% of ideal calories (PO50). A total of 54 and 37 patients with SLE GI involvement were enrolled in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The CT scores for SLE GI involvement were positively correlated with patients' time to PO50 (r = 0.57, p < 0.0001, derivation cohort; r = 0.42, p = 0.0093, validation cohort). Patients with a CT score ≤ 3 had a shorter time to PO50 (median time of 0 day) in pooled cohort, whereas those with a CT score > 3 incurred a significantly prolonged recovery with a median time to PO50 of 13 days (p < 0.0001). The CT-based scoring system may facilitate more accurate assessment and individualized management of SLE patients with GI involvement.

A case of systemic lupus erythematosus with rectal necrosis

Lupus mesenteric vasculitis is one of the most devastating complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may lead to a spectrum of complications, including ulceration, haemorrhage, bowel necrosis, perforation, serositis and ascites. Among such complications, intestinal necrosis and intestinal perforation are the most serious. Rectal necrosis is a rare manifestation of SLE, with only two case reports in the English literature. Here, we report the case of a 59-year-old male patient with SLE complicated by rectal necrosis that was initially misdiagnosed as acne and rectal tumours. After two surgeries and the addition of immunosuppressive therapy, the patient was eventually cured and discharged.

Lupus enteritis as the sole presenting feature of systemic lupus erythematosus: case report and review of the literature

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem, autoimmune inflammatory disease which can affect any organ, including the gastrointestinal tract. Lupus enteritis is one of the manifestations of gastrointestinal involvement in SLE patients. However, it is exceedingly rare that lupus enteritis is the sole initial presentation of SLE. A 12-year-old Thai girl who had had recurrent abdominal pain for 2 months with no other signs of SLE on initial presentation is described. A single-balloon enteroscopy demonstrated segmental erythema of the proximal and mid-jejunum. Histopathology demonstrated active enteritis and submucosal vasculitis. On the basis of evidence of intestinal vasculitis, autoimmune profiles were performed; the results supported the possibility of SLE. She subsequently developed leucopenia, lymphopenia and an oral ulcer, leading to a robust diagnosis of SLE. Her clinical condition improved dramatically with prednisolone. Even though lupus enteritis is rare, it can be the initial presentation of SLE. In young adolescent girls with recurrent abdominal pain, the possibility of lupus enteritis should be borne in mind.

A rare case of laparoscopy towards SLE with lupus mesenteric vasculitis induced ascites

Background

Diagnosis and management of acute abdomen secondary to systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has always been a clinical challenge.

Case presentation

A 21-year-old lady, with BMI 17.7, presented to our department with acute abdomen. Laparoscopy was carried out to exclude surgical emergency when conservative regimen failed. The patient revealed a history of purpuric changes and lupus test was positive for SLE.

Conclusion

Based on our experience, early laparoscopy to alleviate acute abdomen has shown to improve the prognosis of the patient.

A rare case of lupus-related gastrointestinal vasculitis presenting as rectal gangrene

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) related gastrointestinal vasculitis is a rare condition limited to case studies within the literature however, no cases of rectal gangrene and perforation have been previously described. A 32-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, vomiting and fevers. CT demonstrated free gas and free fluid around the rectum indicative of a perforation. He proceeded to urgent laparotomy, confirming a diagnosis of rectal infarction and perforation. Uniquely, the involved segment of gangrene extended from the rectosigmoid to the anorectal junction. A Hartmanns procedure was performed. Histopathology confirmed underlying stenosis of the rectal arteries secondary to chronic vasculitis related to the affected areas. The current case is a unique presentation of SLE-related vasculitis. It highlights the need to judiciously investigate SLE patients presenting with surgical acute abdomen.

Vasculitis in Juvenile-Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is a rare, heterogeneous multisystem autoimmune disease that can affect any organ, and present with diverse clinical and serological manifestations. Vasculitis can be a feature of JSLE. It more commonly presents as cutaneous vasculitis than visceral vasculitis, which can affect the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, lungs, gut, kidneys, heart, and large vessels. The incidence and prevalence of vasculitis in JSLE has not been well described to date. Symptoms of vasculitis can be non-specific and overlap with other features of JSLE, requiring careful consideration for the diagnosis to be achieved and promptly treated. Biopsies are often required to make a definitive diagnosis and differentiate JSLE related vasculitis from other manifestations of JSLE, vasculopathies, and JSLE related antiphospholipid syndrome. Visceral vasculitis can be life threatening, and its presence at the time of JSLE diagnosis is associated with permanent organ damage, which further highlights the importance of prompt recognition and treatment. This review will focus on the presentation, diagnosis, management and outcomes of vasculitis in JSLE, highlighting gaps in the current evidence base.

Clinical characteristics of lupus enteritis in Japanese patients: the large intestine-dominant type has features of intestinal pseudo-obstruction

This study was performed to investigate the clinical characteristics of lupus enteritis in Japanese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A total of 481 patients with SLE admitted to our hospital between 2001 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Diagnosis of lupus enteritis was based on the following three criteria: (1) abdominal symptoms, (2) diffuse long-segment bowel thickening and (3) a requirement for glucocorticoid therapy. Lupus enteritis was identified in 17 patients (3.5%) and there were two distinct types: small intestine-dominant and large intestine-dominant. Significant differences between the two types were noted with respect to the age, frequency of biopsy-proven lupus nephritis, frequency of rectal involvement, maximum bowel wall thickness, and requirement for steroid pulse therapy. Among patients with large intestine-dominant lupus enteritis, 60% had extra-intestinal symptoms (hydroureter, bladder wall thickening, and bile duct dilatation) that are known complications of intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Two patients with large intestine-dominant lupus enteritis developed intestinal pseudo-obstruction either before or after diagnosis of lupus enteritis. Five patients (29%) developed recurrence during a median observation period of 7.2 years (1.4-14.4 years). In conclusion, large intestine-dominant lupus enteritis resembles intestinal pseudo-obstruction and these two diseases may have a common pathogenesis.

Acute gastric dilatation in a patient with lupus nephritis: An uncommon presentation of lupus mesenteric vasculitis

Abdominal symptoms are common in patients with lupus nephritis and are often attributed to drugs or uremia per se. Lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV) or lupus enteritis is a rare entity reported in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus. It usually occurs in patients with a long-standing history of lupus with high disease activity. Usually, small bowel is predominantly affected. The stomach and rectum are spared in view of significant collateral circulation. Here, we describe an 18-year-old boy who presented with nephrotic syndrome without any extrarenal features of lupus. On subsequent evaluation, he was found to have active lupus nephritis. He developed acute gastric dilatation secondary to extensive LMV. Imaging showed an extensive involvement of gastrointestinal tract from the stomach to the sigmoid colon, sparing the rectum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of LMV presenting as acute gastric dilatation.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): an unusual cause of ileocolic intussusception

Intussusception is a rare diagnosis in adults. Gastrointestinal involvement is not unusual in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).¹ A case of intussusception as first presenting symptom of SLE is described. A 50-year-old woman of Chinese origin came to the emergency room with symptoms of high fever, nausea, vomiting and weight loss of 10 kg. Three months before, an episode with abdominal pain due to ileal invagination in the colon occurred. Laboratory analysis showed: thrombocytopaenia, lymphopaenia, positive antinuclear antibody, antidouble-stranded DNA, Coombs tests and low C3 in combination with an active urine sediment and proteinuria. CT and positron emission tomography scan showed lymphadenopathy, but no other abnormalities. Axillar lymph node biopsy showed no abnormalities. The diagnosis new-onset SLE was made. Prednisone treatment was started and soon thereafter tapered, azathioprine and hydroxychloroquine were added. During follow-up, the SLE remained in remission. SLE is a rare cause of ileocolic intussusception and ileocolic intussusception may be the first presenting symptom.

Is there an ethnic difference in the prevalence of lupus cystitis? A report of six cases

Lupus cystitis was rare but frequently resulted in obstructive uropathy and had a strong association with gastrointestinal(GI) symptoms. We treated six patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) and obstructive uropathy from January 1996 to December 2001 in a university hospital. Evidence of cystitis was obtained from cystoscopic biopsy or the presence of thickened bladder wall in image study. Similar to other reports, five patients had GI manifestations such as abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, diarrhoea or ileus. In addition, mesenteric lymphadenopathy or pancreatitis was noted in three patients. Two patients had been treated for idiopathic thrombocytopenicpurpura (ITP), four and 20 years ago, respectively. All six patients had antibodies to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Five patients each had antibodies to cardiolipin (IgG aCL) or SSA. The high prevalence of anti-SSA had also been reported in Chinese lupus patients with intestinal pseudo-obstruction, a clinical manifestation frequently associated with bilateral ureterohydronephrosis. Two patients died of intractable infection after the surgical procedures for persistent ureterohydronephrosis and both patients had antibodies to ribosomal P proteins. Lupus cystitis might not be so rare in Chinese patients with SLE. The diagnosis should be kept in mind when lupus patients have urinary and/or GI symptoms.

Lupus enteritis: clinical characteristics, risk factor for relapse and association with anti-endothelial cell antibody

The study was undertaken to evaluate clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with lupus enteritis and to investigate its association with anti-endothelial cell antibodies (AECAs). Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients who were admitted to Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital with complaints of acute abdominal pain from January 1990 to July 2006 were reviewed retrospectively. The clinical features, laboratory data and prognosis of these patients were analyzed. Among the 706 SLE patients admitted during the study period, 87 were found to admit for acute abdominal pain. Among them, 41 patients were identified with lupus enteritis. The SLE disease activity index score at admission and the mean prednisolone dose administered during the last three months prior to admission were significantly higher in patients with lupus enteritis than those with other causes ( P < 0.001, P = 0.036). Serum anti-endothelial cell antibody (AECA-IgG) titer was also significantly higher in patients with lupus enteritis than those with other manifestations or healthy controls ( P = 0.040, P < 0.001). Four out of 13 recurrent patients had pre-existing anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS), whereas only one out of 28 non-recurrent patients had pre-existing APS ( P = 0.028). Most of the patients with lupus enteritis showed good response to high-dose intravenous steroids and there was no death directly associated with lupus enteritis. Lupus (2007) 16, 803—809.

Autoimmune gastrointestinal complications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: case series and literature review

The association of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with gastrointestinal autoimmune diseases is rare, but has been described in the literature, mostly as case reports. However, some of these diseases may be very severe, thus a correct and early diagnosis with appropriate management are fundamental. We have analysed our data from the SLE patient cohort at University College Hospital London, established in 1978, identifying those patients with an associated autoimmune gastrointestinal disease. We have also undertaken a review of the literature describing the major autoimmune gastrointestinal pathologies which may be coincident with SLE, focusing on the incidence, clinical and laboratory (particularly antibody) findings, common aetiopathogenesis and complications.

Organ involvement other than lupus nephritis in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

In this review we critically analyze pulmonary, gastrointestinal and cardiac manifestations of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). Clinical manifestations of these organ systems may be the initial manifestation of cSLE; frequently occur with very active cSLE; and are potential life-threatening manifestations often presenting to the emergency department and requiring admission to the intensive care unit. Early recognition and treatment of the pulmonary, gastrointestinal and cardiac manifestations of cSLE will result in improved prognosis and better outcomes.

Atypical Presenting Symptoms of Acute Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Enteritis and Cystitis

Lupus enteritis and lupus cystitis are relatively rare manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. Some patients develop severe complications such as bowel perforation, infarction, obstruction, or irreversible bladder dysfunction. Early diagnosis is critical for management of lupus enteritis and cystitis. We report a 48-year-old Japanese man who presented with initial manifestations of abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, and bloody feces. The diagnosis was delayed due to atypical initial symptoms, resulting in clinical worsening. Physicians should be aware of typical computed tomography findings of lupus enteritis and lupus cystitis.

Gastrointestinal manifestations of systemic disease: a multimodality review

Systemic diseases have many different presentations, including imaging findings in the bowel. Recognizing the imaging findings in these diseases is important in making the correct diagnosis. Although certain imaging features overlap, knowledge of specific findings along with the clinical presentation aid in narrowing the differential or in making an imaging diagnosis. The pictorial review will focus on the gastrointestinal manifestations of systemic diseases, including amyloidosis, angiotensin converter enzyme inhibitor-induced angioedema, celiac sprue, distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, graft-versus-host disease, hemolytic uremic syndrome, hemophilia, Henoch-Schönlein purpura, intestinal lymphangiectasia, mastocytosis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, Wegener's granulomatosis, and Whipple's disease. The aforementioned diseases can be subdivided based upon the underlying process leading to the disease. The diseases discussed are categorized into autoimmune, infiltrative, treatment related, congenital/hereditary, and infectious etiologies.

Clinical outcomes of hydronephrosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

AIM

Hydronephrosis is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Bladder and/or gastrointestinal involvement in SLE are associated with development of hydronephrosis, but the management and treatment outcomes of hydronephrosis are largely unknown. Therefore, we investigated the clinical manifestations and factors associated with the treatment response in patients with SLE complicated by hydronephrosis.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis was performed of all 634 SLE patients who underwent computed tomography and/or ultrasonography between January 1998 and December 2013. We reviewed the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients with SLE-associated hydronephrosis.

RESULTS

Hydronephrosis was identified in 15 patients with SLE complicated by cystitis and/or enteritis. All patients were treated initially with moderate to high doses of corticosteroids. A follow-up imaging study showed that 11 (73.3%) of 15 patients experienced improvements in hydronephrosis, and urinary obstruction was resolved without urological intervention in the majority of these patients (8/11, 72.7%). The four patients who experienced no improvement in hydronephrosis were older than those who responded to treatment (median age [interquartile range]; 43.0 [37.5-53.0] years vs. 28.0 [21.0-38.5] years; P = 0.026). In addition, delayed treatment (≥ 1 month after onset of symptoms) with corticosteroids was more frequently observed in the non-responding patients than in the responding patients (P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that treatment with corticosteroids alone leads to favorable outcomes in patients with SLE-associated hydronephrosis, except when treatment is delayed, particularly in elderly patients.

Acute colitis: differential diagnosis using multidetector CT

AIM

To investigate the utility of multidetector CT (MDCT) in helping to establish the underlying cause of acute colitis.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

All patients who had acute colitis with a well-identified cause and underwent abdomen 64-MDCT were included in the study. MDCT images were retrospectively analysed in a blinded fashion and the CT findings were correlated with the eventual aetiological diagnosis.

RESULTS

The study population included 105 patients. Acute colitis was related to inflammatory bowel disease in 43 cases. MDCT was used to identify six relevant signs of inflammatory colitis: the "comb" sign (p < 0.001), enlarged lymph nodes (p < 0.001), abscess (p = 0.026), fibro-fatty infiltration (p = 0.007), small bowel involvement (p < 0.001), and the absence of an "empty colon" sign (p = 0.045). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified three independent signs of inflammatory colitis: the "comb" sign, small bowel involvement, and enlarged lymph nodes. Acute colitis was related to bacterial infection in 35 cases. Five signs were significantly associated with infectious colitis: continuous distribution (p = 0.020), an "empty colon" sign (p = 0.002), absence of fat stranding (p = 0.013), and absence of a "comb" sign (p = 0.010) and absence of enlarged lymph nodes (p = 0.035). Multivariate analysis identified three independent signs: the "empty colon" sign and absence of fat stranding and of a "comb" sign. The remaining causes were ischaemic colitis (n = 21) and drug-related colitis (n = 6). MDCT examination provided five relevant signs of ischaemic colitis: fat stranding (p = 0.002), discontinuous distribution (p < 0.001), and absence of enlarged lymph node (p < 0.001), a "comb" sign (p = 0.006) and small bowel involvement (p = 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

MDCT provides certain suggestive signs that may be helpful in distinguishing the underlying aetiological cause of acute colitis.

Lupus enteritis: clinical characteristics and predictive factors for recurrence

OBJECTIVES

To compare the clinical characteristics of lupus enteritis (LE) and non-enteric lupus (non-LE) patients and identify predictors of LE recurrence.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 62 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in a tertiary hospital who experienced enteric symptoms and underwent abdominal computed tomography scanning between January 1997 and December 2013. We compared the clinical characteristics between LE and non-LE patients and between recurrent LE and non-recurrent LE cases.

RESULTS

Out of 62 SLE patients with enteric symptoms, 46 cases (74%) were compatible with LE based on computed tomography findings. The C4 level was decreased in the LE group compared with the non-LE group (9.0 ± 5.6 vs. 12.3 ± 6.2, p = 0.032). Recurrence of LE was observed in 14 patients (28%). Initial involvement at the colon (79% vs. 41%, p = 0.026) and bladder with/without the ureter was more common in the recurrent group (57% vs. 25%, p = 0.048). By multivariate analysis, the hazard ratios of variables associated with recurrence were 4.689 for colon involvement (95% confidence interval: 1.245-17.659, p = 0.0220] and 5.468 for cystitis with/without ureteritis (95% confidence interval: 1.629-18.360, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Colon and urinary tract involvement in LE patients may be associated with the recurrence of LE.

Successful treatment of rectal ulcers in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus using corticosteroids and tacrolimus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is frequently accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. Although all parts of the gastrointestinal tract may be affected, colonic involvement is quite rare. Colonic ulceration, particularly in the rectum, is associated with a high mortality rate in patients with SLE, despite immunosuppressive therapy. While a standard regimen for treating rectal ulcers as a complication of SLE has not been established, combination therapy with steroids and immunosuppressive agents is necessary because of the associated high mortality rate. In this report, we describe a patient with SLE whose condition was complicated with ulcerative lesions in the rectum and sigmoid colon; the lesions were successfully treated with a combination of corticosteroids and tacrolimus therapy. Tacrolimus could be a useful additional or alternative modality for treating rectal involvement in SLE.

Lupus enteritis as an initial presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder which can affect multiple organs and clinical presentation is often a myriad of symptoms; therefore, the index of suspicion should rise when evaluating patients with multiorgan symptomatology. Lupus enteritis is a distinct subset of SLE, defined as either vasculitis or inflammation of the small bowel, with supportive image and/or biopsy findings. The clinical picture of lupus enteritis is often nonspecific, with mild to severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting being the cardinal manifestations. Although considered a form of visceral or serosal vasculitis, lupus enteritis is seldom confirmed on histology, making computerized tomography (CT) the gold standard for diagnosis. Lupus enteritis is generally steroid-responsive, and the route of administration is based on clinical status and organ involvement, with preference for intravenous (IV) route in flares with significant tissue edema. The following case describes a young woman presenting with lupus enteritis and lupus panniculitis as an initial manifestation of SLE, the utilization of abdominal CT in diagnosis, and current treatment protocols used for lupus enteritis.

MDCT of acute conditions affecting the mesenteric vasculature

Acute conditions affecting the mesenteric vessels can cause abdominal pain and result in significant morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated quickly. As bowel viability depends on patency of the mesenteric vessels, prompt diagnosis is essential. Helical multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) provides a rapid, widely available, non-invasive method to promptly evaluate the mesenteric arteries, veins, and abdominopelvic viscera. Given the value of MDCT in diagnosing vascular disease, it is important the radiologist understand technical and imaging findings of mesenteric vascular injury. Therefore, successful diagnosis hinges on familiarity with MDCT angiography and the extended capabilities of volume rendering and multiplanar reformation. In this review, we illustrate and describe key MDCT findings of congenital, inflammatory, traumatic, infectious, and thromboembolic conditions affecting the mesenteric vasculature in adult patients.

Lupus mesenteric vasculitis: clinical features and associated factors for the recurrence and prognosis of disease

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical characteristics of lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV) and identify the potential factors and appropriate treatments that are associated with disease relapse and prognosis in LMV.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed among patients admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yet-sen University between 2002 and 2011. Demographic information, clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, imaging characteristics like abdominal CT scan, ultrasonography, medications including corticosteroid, cyclophosphamide, and other immunosuppressive agents, and outcomes were documented. The endpoints of the study were defined as occurrence of severe complications that needed surgical intervention, disease recurrence, or death.

RESULTS

Out of 3823 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, 97 were diagnosed with mesenteric vasculitis with the overall prevalence of 2.5%. Among these 97 LMV patients, 13 died because of serious complications (13/97, 13.4%) and 2 presented intestinal perforation during the induction therapy stage. The logistic regression multivariate analysis indicated that leukopenia [peripheral WBC, odds ratio (OR) = 0.640, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.456-0.896, P = 0.009], hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin, OR = 0.891, 95% CI: 0.798-0.994, P = 0.039) and elevated serum amylase (OR = 7.719, 95% CI: 1.795-33.185, P = 0.006) were positively associated with the occurrence of serious complications, while intravenous cyclophosphamide (CYC) therapy inhibited the occurrence of serious complications (OR = 0.220, 95% CI: 0.053-0.903, P = 0.036). A total of 79 patients who achieved remission were followed-up for 2-96 months and 18 cases experienced disease relapse (18/79, 22.8%). The statistical analysis adjusted by Cox proportional hazards models indicated that high-dose CYC therapy (≥ 1.0 g/m(2)/month) was a protective factor for disease relapse and led to better outcomes [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.209, 95% CI: 0.049-0.887, P = 0.034], while the severe thickness of the bowel wall (>8mm) was a risk factor (HR = 7.308, 95% CI: 1.740-30.696, P = 0.007). LMV and lupus cystitis occurred concurrently in 22 (22/97, 22.7%) patients, and the symptoms of urinary tract resolved after treatment with corticosteroid and immunosupressants.

CONCLUSION

LMV is one of the serious complications of SLE with high mortality. The current study demonstrated that leukopenia, hypoalbuminemia, and elevated serum amylase were associated with severe adverse events, while CYC therapy led to better outcomes during remission-induction stage. Severe thickness of the bowel was a risk factor while high-dose CYC therapy was a protective factor for disease relapse in intensification therapy stage. It is necessary to evaluate the urinary tract involvement once LMV is diagnosed due to the frequent coexistence of these 2 diseases.

Clinical Features and Associated Factors of Abdominal Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Objective.

To evaluate the clinical characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-induced abdominal pain in a cohort in South China and identify the risk factors for SLE-induced abdominal pain.

Methods.

This is a retrospective cohort study of SLE patients with complaint of abdominal pain admitted to the first affiliated university hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between 2002 and 2011. Demographic information, clinical features, laboratory findings, SLE Disease Activity Index, and imaging characteristics were documented.

Results.

Of the 3823 SLE patients reviewed, 213 patients complained of abdominal pain and 132 cases were considered SLE-induced. The most common causes were lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV; 73.5%, 97/132) and lupus pancreatitis (LP; 17.4%, 23/132). Other causes included appendicitis, acute gastroenteritis, and peritonitis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated the European Consensus Lupus Activity Measurement (ECLAM) score was significantly associated with lupus-induced abdominal pain (OR = 1.858, 95% CI: 1.441–2.394, p < 0.001), LMV (OR = 1.713, 95% CI: 1.308-2.244, p < 0.001), and LP (OR = 2.153, 95% CI: 1.282, 3.617, p = 0.004). The serum D-dimer level (OR = 1.004, 95% CI: 1.002-1.005, p < 0.001) was a strongly associated factor for lupus-induced abdominal pain. Moderate and large amounts of ascetic fluid was significantly associated with lupus-induced abdominal pain and LMV. Elevated liver enzymes was a risk factor for LP (OR = 34.605, 95% CI: 3.591-333.472, p = 0.002).

Conclusion.

LMV and LP were the leading causes of SLE-induced abdominal pain. The serum D-dimer was a strongly associated factor for lupus-induced abdominal pain. ECLAM score was a reliable index in assessment of SLE-associated abdominal pain. Elevated liver enzymes, and moderate or large amounts of ascites, were positively associated with lupus-induced abdominal pain.

Lupus enteritis: an uncommon manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus

We report the case of a 25-year-old Iraqi woman who had multiple hospitalizations at an outside hospital for abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea without any evidence of systemic lupus erythematosus. Laboratory investigations finally showed a positive antinuclear antibody (1280), positive anti-dsDNA, anti-β2 glycoprotein I, low complement, positive Coombs tests, and leukopenia. A kidney biopsy showed ISN class II lupus nephritis. An ileal biopsy and angiogram were unremarkable. A computed tomography showed marked and dramatic bowel edema involving the small and large bowel ("target sign"), dilatation of intestinal segments, engorgement of mesenteric vessels ("comb sign"), and increased attenuation of mesenteric fat. These cardinal signs on computed tomography scan led to the correct diagnosis of lupus enteritis. Treatment was commenced with high-dose corticosteroids followed by mycophenolate mofetil, hydroxychloroquine, and then oral cyclophosphamide, but failed. The patient was eventually treated with the Euro-Lupus intravenous cyclophosphamide regimen, which resulted in significant clinical and radiological resolution.

Lupus enteritis: from clinical findings to therapeutic management

Lupus enteritis is a rare and poorly understood cause of abdominal pain in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we report a series of 7 new patients with this rare condition who were referred to French tertiary care centers and perform a systematic literature review of SLE cases fulfilling the revised ACR criteria, with evidence for small bowel involvement, excluding those with infectious enteritis. We describe the characteristics of 143 previously published and 7 new cases. Clinical symptoms mostly included abdominal pain (97%), vomiting (42%), diarrhea (32%) and fever (20%). Laboratory features mostly reflected lupus activity: low complement levels (88%), anemia (52%), leukocytopenia or lymphocytopenia (40%) and thrombocytopenia (21%). Median CRP level was 2.0 mg/dL (range 0–8.2 mg/dL). Proteinuria was present in 47% of cases. Imaging studies revealed bowel wall edema (95%), ascites (78%), the characteristic target sign (71%), mesenteric abnormalities (71%) and bowel dilatation (24%). Only 9 patients (6%) had histologically confirmed vasculitis. All patients received corticosteroids as a first-line therapy, with additional immunosuppressants administered either from the initial episode or only in case of relapse (recurrence rate: 25%). Seven percent developed intestinal necrosis or perforation, yielding a mortality rate of 2.7%. Altogether, lupus enteritis is a poorly known cause of abdominal pain in SLE patients, with distinct clinical and therapeutic features. The disease may evolve to intestinal necrosis and perforation if untreated. Adding with this an excellent steroid responsiveness, timely diagnosis becomes primordial for the adequate management of this rare entity.

Imaging of systemic lupus erythematosus. Part II: gastrointestinal, renal, and musculoskeletal manifestations

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multisystem autoimmune disease that has a relapsing and remitting course. It has a wide range of presentations with various organ manifestations. In this review, we have compiled the radiological findings of gastrointestinal, renal, and musculoskeletal manifestations of SLE.