Protein-losing enteropathy in systemic lupus erythematosus. Diagnosis and monitoring immunosuppressive therapy by alpha-1-antitrypsin clearance in stool.
Enteric protein loss resulting in profound hypoalbuminemia and anasarca is an uncommon manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus and only rarely is the initial presentation of disease. A few patients with SLE and protein-losing enteropathy in the absence of increased central venous pressure or intestinal lymphangiectasia have been reported. We describe the utility alpha-1-antitrypsin clearance in stool for diagnosing and monitoring enteric protein loss during successful immunosuppressive drug therapy in a patient who presented with massive enteric protein loss as the initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus.
Department of Medicine, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland.
K G
KG
Benner
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A
Montanaro
D000328:Adult; D005243:Feces / Q000032:analysis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D011504:Protein-Losing Enteropathies / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D000515:alpha 1-Antitrypsin / Q000032:analysis*
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D000515:alpha 1-Antitrypsin