A vexing case of a 73‐year‐old man with fevers, orbital cellulitis, and asymptomatic interstitial lung disease

Abstract

Abstract VEXAS (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X‐linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) syndrome is a rare and recently identified disease resulting from a somatic mutation in the X‐linked UBA1 gene in cells of myeloid lineage. It can present in a myriad of ways with the potential to affect various organ systems, including the lungs. VEXAS is usually steroid responsive, but no strong data exists for the use of a steroid‐sparing agent. There is limited emerging evidence for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a select number of cases. Regardless, prognosis for this condition is poor and a treatment algorithm remains a priority. Herein, we present a case of VEXAS that came to attention with discovery of a relatively asymptomatic interstitial lung disease and led to recurrent febrile episodes with evolving multi‐organ involvement.

Keywords

• interstitial lung disease
• orbital cellulitis
• VEXAS