DOWN’s syndrome with Systemic Lupus Erythematosis: Never turn a blind eye

Abstract

Down’s syndrome (DS, Trisomy 21) with a prevalence of 1:8,000 live births is considered the most common genetic chromosomal disorder, with an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. In addition to physical and mental developmental delays and disabilities being a challenge to this disorder, vulnerability of DS patients to a variety of autoimmune diseases like diabetes, thyroid disorders and celiac disease is also well established suggesting impaired immune response especially cell mediated immunity. In the last 3 decades, a few cases of Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE) have been identified and reported internationally, this case report adds to this rare association and also endorses the need to carefully evaluate and investigate the DS individuals for the presence of connective tissue disorders especially if there is already an existing autoimmune disorder like diabetes, celiac or thyroid disorder.