• Laryngeal complications in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are rarely described. They range from hoarseness to life-threatening respiratory distress. To our knowledge, previous reports describe laryngeal involvement with SLE occurring only during periods of active disease. We saw a patient with inactive SLE in whom hoarseness and exertional dyspnea developed as a result of arytenoiditis and vocal cord paresis during steroid tapering. The condition responded dramatically to readjustment of her steroid dosage. Involvement of the larynx with SLE is a potentially life-threatening complication and may occur In patients with either active or inactive disease. It is an indication for close observation and steroid therapy in patients with SLE.
(Arch Intern Med 1984;144:1867-1868)