Pure Red Cell Aplasia as a Presenting Feature in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Association with Thymoma, Hypothyroidism and Hypoparathyroidism: a Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

This paper presents a 54-year-old female with lupus whom severe anaemia due to pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) was the first manifestation. There was seven years interval between PRCA onset and diagnosis of lupus. Thymectomy due to thymoma had been carried out six years before but anaemia sustained. Hypothyroidism and hypoparathyroidism were other associated diseases. Severe anaemia and the need for monthly blood infusions were resolved following treatment with Prednisolone, Hydroxychloroquine and Levothyroxine