Avascular necrosis in systemic lupus erythematosus patients: Analysis of the demographics, clinical manifestations, management and outcomes

Background

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that may develop from the disease or its treatment.

Aim of the work

To present the clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of SLE patients with AVN.

Patients and methods

The SLE patients with AVN on X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) following up at Fatima Memorial Hospital College of Medicine and Dentistry Shadman, Lahore, Pakistan were studied. Detailed medical history, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, treatment details and outcomes were recorded.

Results

Out of 230 SLE patients, 20 (8.6%) had AVN; 80% females, F:M 4:1 with a mean age at onset of SLE 19.8 ± 6.5 years, and mean duration till occurrence of AVN 3.9 ± 2.3 years. AVN developed within 4 years of onset in 80% of patients. Mucocutaneous symptoms were the most common presentation (95%) and 65% had positive antiphospholipid antibodies. Until AVN development, all patients received a mean of 3.5 ± 0.7 g pulse steroid and a mean cumulative oral steroid dose of 18.6 ± 6.2 g. AVN was in the hip joint in 95% of cases, 80% were bilateral. AVN was grade II in 45% patients, grade III in 25% (n = 5), I in 20% (n = 4) and grade IV in 10% (n = 2). Grade I and II had preserved joint function and didn't need any surgery compared to stage III and IV.

Conclusions

In SLE patients, AVN is a relatively early complication occurring within 4 years of illness in patients with a young age at onset, and have a better outcome when detected at earlier stages.