Tendon rupture in systemic lupus erythematosus.

A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and spontaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon is reported. Tendon rupture in SLE is extremely uncommon; review of the reported cases suggests that it may be more common in males, and is a late complication of SLE, more likely to occur in older patients. The possible role of corticosteroid therapy is discussed.