Systemic lupus erythematosus in a child receiving long-term interferon therapy.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) developed in a 10 1/2-year-old white boy with juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis who had been treated with interferon alfa-n1 for 7 years. His age, gender, and fast recovery after discontinuation of interferon therapy and institution of appropriate treatment for SLE are compatible with a diagnosis of drug-induced SLE. Autoimmune disorders may occur as a complication of interferon therapy.