Question | Answer |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) | Chronic multisystem inflammatory disease
Associated with abnormalities of immune system
Affects skin, joints, lungs, heart, and renal, hematologic, and neurologic systems |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Pathophysiology | Disordered T-cell function leading to hyperactive B cells
Autoantibodies against normal body components |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Manifestations | Fever, anorexia, weight loss, multiple arthralgias/symmetric polyarthritis
Unexplained fever
Red rash, especially on the face
Alopecia |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Manifestations | Pale, cyanotic fingers/toes (vasculitis manifestation)
Peripheral/periorbital edema (renal manifestation)
Sensitivity to sunlight
Cognitive dysfunction (neurological manifestations)
Mouth ulcerations
Enlarged glands
Extreme Fatigue |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complications | Kidney failure and infections are leading cause of death
Infection
Fever should be considered serious: It is classic sign of exacerbation |
Warning Signs of SLE FLARE | Increased fatigue
Pain, abdominal discomfort
Rash
Headache
Fever
dizziness |
SLE Diagnostic Studies | patient history
physical examination
laboratory findings:
ANA, anti-DNA antibody testing, ESR, Serum complement levels, CBC, Urinalysis, Kidney biopsy |
SLE Drug Therapy | NSAIDs
Antimalarial drugs ( skin/arthritic manifestations)
Corticosteroid therapy ( severe/life-threatening manifestations)
High doses, also may be indicated for long term
More complications possible due to steroid therapy |
SLE Treatments | Avoid Sun exposure
Avoid oral contraceptive use
Complications: Renal
Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis |