Hyposplenism in systemic lupus erythematosus

Hyposplenism, which is suggested by a typical peripheral blood smear and by the absence of splenic activity in a ^99m To sulphur colloid scan, has been recently found to be associated with various diseases. This condition increases the susceptibility of patients to certain bacterial infections principally by pneumococci, meningococci and Haemophilus influenzae. The association of SLE and hyposplenism has not often been reported before; thus we see fit to report another such case. The administration of polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine is recommended in this condition.