This patient presentation will explore a compelling case study, taking attendees on a journey back to its origins. We’ll review the initial symptoms, investigations and clinical and laboratory findings that, ultimately led to the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Fatigue emerges as a critical symptom and is particularly noteworthy in younger patients.¹ It is also very important to consider SLE within the differential diagnosis of hematological malignancies.² Moreover, understanding the heightened susceptibility of lupus patients to (hospital-acquired) infections is important. Lastly, it is critical to advocate for informed patient care, stressing the necessity of discussing potential therapy-related risks and the importance of shared decision making.

References

1. Cornet A, Andersen J, Myllys K, et al. Living with systemic lupus erythematosus in 2020: A European patient survey. Lupus Sci Med 2021;8(1) doi: 10.1136/lupus-2020-000469 [published Online First: 2021/04/15]

2. Fanouriakis A, Tziolos N, Bertsias G, et al. Update omicronn the diagnosis and management of systemic lupus erythematosus. Ann Rheum Dis 2021;80(1):14–25. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218272 [published Online First: 2020/10/15]

Learning Objectives At the end of this presentation participants will be able to:

• Explain why fatigue is a serious symptom, especially in children and young adults

• Discuss the importance of considering lupus in the differential diagnosis when hematological malignancies are suspected based on clinical and/or laboratory findings

• Recognise lupus patients are susceptible to infection, either therapy-related or due to immunological abnormalities

• Identify (hospital-acquired) infection in case of acute clinical deterioration

• Consider the future, and inform the patient about the possible risks of recommended treatment