TETRACYCLINE PROVOCATION IN LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

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Abstract
Lupus erythematosus (LE) appeared de novo in a patient given tetracycline, and cleared with steroid therapy. Fatal exacerbation of known LE occurred in a 2nd patient given tetracycline for urinary tract infection. In a 3rd patient positive LE tests were evoked by administration of tetracycline and of penicillin (separately). Specificity of the LE test remains reasonably high despite occasional occurrence of positive tests in 15 other clinical conditions. LE reactions have been reported after various physical stresses, and following at least 16 other medications. Hypersensitivity is characteristic of LE patients and renders hazardous the administration of many useful drugs.