Multiple tendon rupture in systemic lupus erythematosus: case report and review of the literature.

Tendon rupture in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rare complication that appears to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy. A case is presented with sequential bilateral rupture of Achilles tendon and unilateral rupture of a patellar tendon. Six more published cases are reviewed. Tendon rupture in SLE has affected both males and females between the ages of 24 and 63 years. It occurred exclusively in the weight-bearing tendons: in 6 instances the patellar tendon was severed, in 2 the Achilles, and in one the quadriceps. All 7 patients were on corticosteroid therapy at or just before the time of injury. The deleterious effect of this treatment in loosening connective tissue is discussed.