Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Unmasked By Anti-Tubercular Treatment: A Rare Presentation

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a systemic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissue. SLE is characterized by the presence of antibodies most commonly against a person's own proteins particularly against proteins in the cell nucleus; anti-nuclear antibodies, which are found in nearly all cases. These antibodies lead to inflammation. Although the underlying cause of autoimmune diseases is unknown, most believe that lupus results from both genetic and environmental stimuli. Today, over 90% survive for more than ten years, and many live relatively asymptomatically, 80–90% can expect to live a normal lifespan.