Aseptic meningitis is a rare presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). High index of suspicion is crucial when there is suboptimal response to the initial standard meningitis treatment and presence of connective tissue disease symptoms. We report 3 cases of aseptic meningitis as the main initial presentation of SLE. The diagnosis of SLE as the underlying cause of the aseptic meningitis was supported by the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings. All patients showed good response after treated with immunosuppressant therapy.

Highlights A case of a disseminated melioidosis infection with central nervous system, pulmonary, spleen, bone and skin involvement. Central nervous system melioidosis in a patient with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus. Agriculture contact and underlying immunocompromised state predispose to melioidosis infection. Positive cerebrospinal fluid cultures to confirm central nervous system melioidosis. Extension of eradication therapy in view of osteomyelitis and residual cerebral lesion.