J Korean Rheum Assoc.  2002 Dec;9(4):313-318.

A Case of Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

• Ahn JK
• Koh JH
• Jeon CH
• Cha HS
• Kim YH
• Koh EM

Abstract

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is an uncommon and poorly understood complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. It is characterized by acute or chronic symptoms suggestive of the obstruction of small or large intestine without any radiologic, surgical or endoscopic evidence of mechanical obstruction. Although the exact pathogenesis of intestinal pseudo-obstruction in SLE remains unknown, it can be caused by derangement of the visceral smooth muscle, enteric nerves or visceral autonomic nervous system. Concomitant involvement with dilatation of gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract highly suggests of intestinal pseudo-obstruction in systemic lupus erythematosus. There is an apparent association between lupus-related intestinal pseudo-obstruction and ureterohydronephrosis. The management of intestinal pseudo-obstruction consists of high dose corticosteroid, adequate nutrition, hydration and prokinetics. Early recognition of intestinal pseudo-obstruction in systemic lupus erythematosus and the use of adequate dose of corticosteroid are important. We report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus presenting as intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

Keyword

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction; Systemic lupus erythematosus; Ureterohydronephrosis

MeSH Terms

Autonomic Nervous System
Dilatation
Humans
Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction*
Intestine, Large
Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic*
Muscle, Smooth