Lupus Pericardial Effusion successfully treated with methylprednisolone pulse

Pericardial effusion is a rare complication of SLE-related serositis (1). We are presenting a case of lupus pericardial effusion that was successfully managed with methylprednisolone pulse therapy. The patient, a 22-year-old diagnosed with SLE, presented with symptoms and signs suggestive of pericarditis. Transthoracic echocardiography showed mild pericardial effusion. Investigations, including elevated ESR and C-reactive protein, were high with normal procalcitonin, were indicative of SLE-related serositis. TSH was within the normal range and tuberculosis screening was negative. The patient was treated with an intravenous methylprednisolone pulse. Following the treatment, the patient’s pericardial effusion resolved, and inflammatory markers returned to the normal range. There are various treatment options for acute pericarditis in SLE, and methylprednisolone pulse therapy can be used in patients with associated pericardial effusion.