Systemic lupus erythematosus induced by ovulation induction treatment.
Infertile women are treated with various regimens for ovulation induction. The ultimate end-result of these treatments is a significant rise in levels of serum gonadotropins and estradiol--the most potent natural estrogen. Estrogens may affect diverse biologic functions, including immune and inflammatory reactions. A role for estrogens in the development or exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been suggested by many studies. In this report, we present 3 cases of otherwise healthy women who received ovulation induction agents and subsequently developed full-blown SLE. The possible association between this treatment and SLE is discussed.
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Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
Ben-Chetrit
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D000328:Adult; D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000097:blood; D004958:Estradiol / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology*; D010062:Ovulation Induction / Q000009:adverse effects*
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D004958:Estradiol