Systemic lupus erythematosus with visceral varicella: A case report

Core Tip

Core Tip: The long-term use of steroids and immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of systemic lupus erythaematosus may decrease immunity, which is a high-risk factor for varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection and severe varicella. Patients with varicella who suddenly develop abdominal pain should be informed about visceral disseminated VZV infection, which principally manifests as severe abdominal pain, with potential stomach, intestine and spleen involvement. Furthermore, abdominal pain may appear several days before skin rashes, and such infections may be misdiagnosed for other acute abdomen, lupus mesenteric vasculitis or thromboembolic diseases. Thus, prompt and accurate diagnosis and the early initiation of antiviral therapy are particularly important for avoiding severe life-threatening complications.