ABSTRACT

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a connective tissue disease characterized by vasculitis, which may involve multiple organs as well as the skin. Serologic tests for syphilis may be false positive in SLE. Although the false positivity of VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) is commonly seen, false positivity of TPHA (Treponema pallidum haemagglutination) is a rare condition. We present a case of SLE with false positive VDRL and TPHA. A 26-year-old woman was admitted to our clinic with violaceous papules and plaques with whitish desquamation and erosions, and crusts on the face, arms and back. The histopathological examination of the skin biopsy supported the diagnosis of discoid lupus erythematosus. The diagnosis of SLE was based on the presence of photosensitivity and the detection of leukopenia, anemia and positivities of antinuclear antibody, anti DNA, and VDRL. In addition to these findings, TPHA was found to be positive, but the ELISA test for syphilis and FTA ABS Ig M were negative. The positivity of VDRL and TPHA were accepted as false positives. We would like to point out that the false positivity of TPHA, although more rarely encountered, as well as that of VDRL, may be observed in SLE patients.