Lithium and Lupuslike Syndrome

To the Editor.— A common side effect associated with lithium carbonate administration is a rash, possibly related to lithium's action on immunologic function. 1 In this regard, lithium has been suggested to be a potential causative agent for drug-induced lupus erythematosus. 2 We present a case report demonstrating the association between lithium administration and a lupuslike syndrome. Report of a Case.— A 44-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital for recurrent unipolar depression with suicidal ideation after ingesting 150 mg of desipramine hydrochloride in a suicide attempt. She had a history of thyroid surgery, spastic colitis, fissure in ano, and bronchial asthma. She had received tricyclic antidepressants in the past, including imipramine hydrochloride and desipramine. She had a history of allergy to sulfonamides, tetanus antiserum, and citrus fruits. At admission, physical examination findings were normal and no dermatologic abnormalities were noted; all laboratory test results were within normal limits. Her