Are there models for predicting accelerated atherogenesis in systemic lupus erythematosus?

Identification of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who are at risk of complications related to accelerated atherogenesis is extremely important in order to put in place preventive or therapeutic measures that will greatly improve quality of life and outcomes. The severity of accelerated atherogenesis is worsened by corticosteroids, but this complication might also occur in the absence of steroid therapy. In order to identify patients at risk of accelerated atherogenesis, Karp et al. have proposed a statistical model, based on Framingham data, steroid dosing, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores and predicted events related to coronary artery disease. This commentary critically reviews this model.