USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

Which type of thrombosis is commonly associated with Lupus?

1. DVT

2. Myocardial infarction

3. Pulmonary embolism

4. Peripheral artery thrombosis

The correct answer is: DVT

In the context of lupus, venous thrombosis, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is commonly associated. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have an increased risk of thrombotic events due to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, which can lead to a hypercoagulable state. This condition predisposes individuals to venous thromboembolism, including DVT. While other types of thrombosis, such as pulmonary embolism and arterial thrombosis, can occur in patients with lupus, the classic association observed in the literature is with DVT due to its prevalence in these patients. Myocardial infarction can also be seen in lupus patients, generally related to other risk factors rather than a direct consequence of lupus itself. Peripheral artery thrombosis is less commonly discussed in relation to lupus compared to venous thrombosis. Thus, deep vein thrombosis is the most commonly recognized thrombotic event linked with lupus.