Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with a Giant Rectal Ulcer and Perforation

A 41-year-old man with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who developed pelvic inflammation due to perforation of a giant rectal ulcer is described. The patient presented with persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever without development of disease activity of SLE. Endoscopic and radiological examinations revealed a perforated giant ulcer on the posterior wall at the rectum below the peritoneal evagination. The ulcerated area was decreased after a colostomy was performed at the transverse colon to preserve anal function. The patient is currently being monitored on an outpatient basis. It should be noted that life-threatening complications such as perforated ulcer of the intestinal tract could occur without SLE disease activity. (Internal Medicine 38: 643-649, 1999)