Systemic lupus erythematosus--not to be forgotten in the elderly.

A 70-year-old woman presented with a skin rash, chronic headaches, congestive cardiac failure, and a moderate pericardial effusion. These were attributed to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She responded to a moderate dose of corticosteroids. SLE though rare in the elderly is a disorder that should not be forgotten.