Lupus Masquerading as a Drug Reaction in HIV Infection

Abstract

An HIV-positive female on antiretroviral therapy (ART) presented with an annular eruption diagnosed as a drug reaction based on histology of a lichenoid dermatitis. She responded to oral steroid therapy and discontinuation, but progressed to develop features in keeping with cutaneous lupus. Although the antinuclear factor remained negative, her low serum complement levels, histology, and clinical features pointed to a diagnosis of subacute lupus in the setting of HIV infection. She responded well to antimalarial therapy and recommenced ART.

Drug-induced systemic lupus erythematosus in a child living with HIV

“…In both the cases, diagnosis was established based on the clinical presentations, temporal association with ART introduction, and resolution of clinical symptoms on withdrawal of ART. [ 12 13 ] In one of the reports, emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir were the offending drugs mentioned and the same were discontinued. [ 12 ] In the second report, ART was continued along with oral chloroquine, which led to clinical improvement.…”

“…[ 12 ] In the second report, ART was continued along with oral chloroquine, which led to clinical improvement. [ 13 ]…”