Chronic ascites in late onset systemic lupus erythematosus with antiphospholipid antibodies
Corbella, X.; Mitjavila, F.; Campoy, E.; Saez, A.; Moga, I.; Vidaller, A.
Journal of Rheumatology 21(6): 1141-1143
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0315-162X PMID: 7932430 Document Number: 3401
Because doctors are reluctant to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in elderly patients, the initial diagnosis in this age group is usually tardy. Furthermore, the presenting manifestations in these patients are commonly atypical. We describe a 72-year-old woman in whom chronic ascites with antiphospholipid antibodies was the initial predominant manifestation of subsequently fatal SLE. Only 13 cases of chronic lupus ascites have been reported in the English and French literature. Our patient represents the first case reported in an elderly person.
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