Lupus cystitis presenting with hidronephrosis and gastrointestinal involvement

• Published in: Brazilian Journal of Nephrology 2016-12, Vol.38 (4), p.478-482
• Main Authors: Teles, Flávio, Santos, Larissa Gonçalves de Albuquerque, Tenório, Carlos Eugênio Lira, Marinho, Monique Ramalho, Moraes, Saulo Rodrigo de Ramalho, Câmara, Davi de Brito, Santos, Renata Oliveira, Lins, Camila Ricardo Uchôa, Costa, André Falcão Pedrosa
• Format: Article
• Language: eng ; por
• Subjects: cistite intersticial; lúpus eritematoso sistêmico; sintomas do trato urinário inferior
• ISSN: 0101-2800; 2175-8239
• DOI: 10.5935/0101-2800.20160077

Abstract Introduction: Lupus cystitis is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, characterized by thickening of the bladder wall, associated with ureterohydronephrosis. In several cases gastrointestinal symptoms are the main manifestation. The optimal immunosuppressive regimen is still unknown. Methods: 16-year-old girl with systemic lupus erythematosus was admitted with dysuria, renal impairment, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. An abdominal CT scan demonstrated moderate bilateral dilation from the pelvis to the ureterovesical junction, and the bladder exhibited reduced capacity and diffusely thickened walls. A diagnosis of chronic interstitial cystitis was performed and treatment with high dose methylprednisolone resulted in a significant relief of gastrointestinal and urinary symptoms and a reduction of the bladder thickness with improvement of their capacity. Conclusion: Lupus cystitis is a rare and underdiagnosed urinary manifestation of LES and the presence of mild urinary symptoms and abdominal pain may alert about this possibility.