Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which typically affects young women, is characterized by the formation of autoantibodies to many endogenous antigens [e.g., DNA,
RNA, nuclear proteins).
Clinical manifestations.
Circulating immune complexes are deposited in many
tissues, causing organ-specific lesions (Table 3-1).
The classic butterfly rash is seen in only 30% of patients,
Diagnostic laboratory tests
a. An antineutrophil antibody (ANA) test is the best screening test for SLE. It
is positive in 95% of patients with SLE, but it lacks specificity.
b. Antibody to double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) is highly specific but is
present in only 60% of patients with SLE.
?. Smith antibody to ribonucleoprotein (anti-Sin) is also highly specific for SLE, but only 30% of patients with SLE will have anti-Sm.
d. Serum complement levels. Depressed complement levels are a sign of disease activity.
e. Skin biopsy. A positive “lupus band test” is represented by granular deposits of immune complexes along the epidermal-dermal junction.
f. Renal biopsy is used to determine the type and severity of glomerular disease.
Powerpoint Downloads
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus 1
Systemic lupus erythematosus 2
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) 3
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) 4
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) 5
SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS 6
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in Pregnancy
Organ Based Approach – SLE for the Internist
Severe vaso-occlusive retinopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus …
Renal and Cardica Manifestations of SLE