Hydroxychloroquine-induced phospholipidosis in a case of SLE: the wolf in zebra clothing

Ultrastruct Pathol. 2013 Apr;37(2):146-50. doi: 10.3109/01913123.2012.751950.

Abstract

A 30 year old lady patient of SLE on steroid and hydroxychloroquine therapy presented with lupus nephritis and later developed cardiac symptoms. Her renal biopsy revealed features of Class III lupus nephritis. Also seen was typical lamellated myelinoid material in the glomerulus. The alpha-galactosidase A activity was normal. The clinical morphological and biochemical findings were consistent with Lupus nephritis showing changes of hydroxychloroquine induced phopholipidosis. Electron microscopy along with careful clinical examination and follow up status was instrumental in the diagnosis of the latter.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antirheumatic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hydroxychloroquine / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Kidney Glomerulus / ultrastructure
  • Lipidoses / chemically induced*
  • Lipidoses / diagnosis
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / drug therapy*
  • Lupus Nephritis / diagnosis
  • Lupus Nephritis / drug therapy*
  • Myelin Sheath / ultrastructure
  • Nephrotic Syndrome
  • Phospholipids / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Phospholipids
  • Hydroxychloroquine
  • Cyclophosphamide