Digital gangrene: a rare skin symptom in systemic lupus erythematosus

A case of digital gangrene in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus without secondary anti-phospholipid syndrome is reported. The acute onset of the necrotizing acrovasculitis occurred without a history of Raynaud's phenomenon. Preceding symptoms of the systemic lupus erythematosus were arthritis, photosensitivity, alopecia and anorexia. Despite the seriousness of the acute episode the patient achieved an excellent outcome.