SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease that has protean manifestations and follows a relapsing and remitting course. It is characterized by an autoantibody response to nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens. SLE can affect any organ system, but mainly involves the skin, joints, kidneys, blood cells, and nervous system (see Clinica l). The diagnosis of SLE must be based on the proper constellation of clinical findings and laboratory evidence. American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria summarizes features necessary for diagnosis. (See Workup.) Management depends on disease severity and organ involvement. Periodic follow-up and laboratory testing are imperative to detect signs and symptoms of new organ-system involvement and to monitor the response or adverse reactions to therapies. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a long-term autoimmune disorder that may affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.