BACKGROUND Late-onset systemic lupus erythematosus represents a specific sub-group of the disorder, beginning after 50 years of age. The incidence is rarer and the course of the disease is considered to be more benign. Digital gangrene is an uncommon complication of systemic lupus erythematosus reported especially among middle-aged patients with long disease duration. METHODS We report a 53-year-old man, who presented with systemic lupus erythematosus revealed by an extensive digital gangrene. CONCLUSIONS Digital gangrene is a rare complication of late onset systemic lupus erythematosus. Clinicians should be aware of this complication in order to initiate early and aggressive treatment.