Influenza virus B-associated hemophagocytic syndrome and recurrent pericarditis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

We report a 24-year-old male with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who developed influenza virus B-associated hemophagocytic syndrome and cardiac tamponade. Although the patient’s general condition improved after steroid pulse therapy and pericardiocentesis, pericardial effusion re-accumulated. Colchicine and aspirin were administered, together with prednisolone, after which no further relapses occurred. This was a rare case of severe influenza-associated hemophagocytic syndrome and steroid-resistant pericardial effusion in an SLE patient.