Primary Presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) as the first clinical manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an unusual and rare presentation. This case report discusses a 30-year-old male who presented with chest pain and hypoxemia at a hospital in Dubai. Initial workup revealed elevated D-dimer levels and a positive CT pulmonary angiogram confirming PE. The patient’s medical history was unremarkable, except for a recent transient leg discomfort. Upon further investigation, hypoalbuminemia and proteinuria suggested nephrotic syndrome. A thorough autoimmune evaluation revealed elevated anti-dsDNA antibodies, leading to a diagnosis of SLE nephritis. This case emphasizes the necessity of considering SLE as a differential diagnosis for young patients with unexplained thrombotic events, even in the absence of traditional SLE symptoms. Treatment and early recognition are important in managing thrombotic complications in SLE.