Retiform non-blanchable purpuric plaques in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Lupus. 2019 Jul;28(8):1013-1016. doi: 10.1177/0961203319847274. Epub 2019 May 24.

Abstract

Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is a small vessel occlusive disease that can present with a painful purpuric eruption. Predominantly affecting young women, LV has been associated with hypercoagulable states and antiphospholipid syndrome. We present an unusual case of LV occurring in the setting of acute kidney injury secondary to lupus nephritis. It is important to differentiate LV from vasculitis as the treatment recommendation centers on anticoagulation therapy rather than immunosuppression. Additionally, antiphospholipid syndrome should be ruled out in cases of systemic lupus erythematosus with LV due to risk of thrombotic events.

Keywords: Lupus nephritis; antiphospholipid syndrome; lupus vasculitis; systemic lupus erythematosus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid / blood
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Livedo Reticularis / etiology*
  • Livedo Reticularis / pathology
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / physiopathology
  • Lupus Nephritis / etiology*
  • Lupus Nephritis / pathology
  • Thrombosis / etiology*
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid