Life SciencesImmunologyNeurologyAutoimmunityImmunopathologyRheumatologyAutoantibodiesAutoimmune DiseasesAutoimmune Rheumatic DiseasesConnective Tissue DiseasesSystemic Autoimmune DiseaseSystemic Lupus ErythematosusAntinuclear Antibody PositivityCarpal Tunnel Syndrome TestingConnective Tissue Disease PathologySystemic Lupus Erythematosus AssociationsSystemic Lupus Erythematosus Diagnostics
Carpal tunnel syndrome was the first manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in two patients and was also present in one patient with a drug-induced lupus syndrome. All patients obtained relief with conventional treatment. The diagnosis of SLE was made because of a high index of suspicion for connective tissue disease in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. As part of the examination for connective tissue disease, an antinuclear antibody test should be done in all patients with carpal tunnel syndrome of unclear cause.