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The coexistence of haemoglobinopathies with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an occurrence that has been reported infrequently. The symptomatic overlap between the two diseases can make the diagnosis of an SLE flare versus a sickle crisis challenging. The limited reports available do not suggest an association, but the coexistence of the two diseases has been reported to manifest in a more virulent manner necessitating aggressive immunosuppression. The purpose of this report is to highlight the diagnostic challenges faced in a patient with the coexisting diseases, to report the severity and spectrum of the manifestations of SLE in the patient and our experience in treatment of her complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]