Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystem autoimmune disease of unknown aetiology. It can affect almost any organ system and ranges from mild to severe to life-threatening.
Key Points
- SLE can affect almost any organ system and ranges from mild to severe to life-threatening.
- There are no specific diagnostic criteria. Clinical criteria combined with immunological and or biopsy criteria are useful to make a diagnosis.
- The differential diagnosis is wide, and there is significant overlap with other rheumatological conditions that must be excluded.
- SLE may coexist with other autoimmune diseases such as rhupus syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease and overlap syndromes.
- SLE affects pregnancy outcomes and increases neonatal complications.
- Treatment intensity is directed by the severity and risk of organ involvement.
- Treatment with immunosuppression should be closely monitored for drug toxicity.
