Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

The bm12 Inducible Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: November 1, 2015
Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus in Bahrain. A tertiary referral center experience
Zakiya Al-Mosawi1, Badriya E Al-Hermi, Khulood K Al-Saad
1Department of Pediatrics, Salmaniya Medical Complex, PO Box 12, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. zakee08@hotmail.co.uk
Insights
This study analyzed pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Bahrain, finding skin and kidney involvement common. Nephritis was a key factor in morbidity and mortality, with a notable coexistence of SLE and sickle cell anemia.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems.
- Understanding the specific clinical and serological profiles of pediatric SLE in diverse populations is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical and serological features of pediatric SLE patients in Bahrain.
- To assess comorbidity, morbidity, and mortality associated with pediatric SLE in this region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical charts of pediatric SLE patients treated at Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain (1998-2007).
- Data collection included demographics, clinical manifestations, serological markers, comorbidities, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Thirty-two pediatric SLE cases were identified, predominantly Bahraini (96.8%).
- Commonly affected systems included skin (93%), kidney (81%), and musculoskeletal (65%).
- High rates of positive antinuclear antibody (90.6%) and anti-dsDNA (65%) were observed. Nephritis was the leading cause of morbidity (21%) and mortality (12.5%). Eight patients (25%) had sickle cell anemia.
Conclusions:
- Clinical and serological findings in Bahraini pediatric SLE patients align with international data.
- Nephritis is a significant driver of morbidity and mortality in this cohort.
- The coexistence of SLE and sickle cell anemia warrants further investigation, potentially including genetic studies.
Objective:
To analyze the clinical and serological features of children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a major referral center in Bahrain and to assess the comorbidity, its morbidity, and mortality.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of children with SLE treated in the Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic at Salmaniya Medical Complex, Kingdom of Bahrain from 1998 to 2007. The ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Research Health Committee, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain.
Results:
Thirty-two children with SLE were identified. Thirty-one (96.8%) were Bahrainis. The mean age was 14 +/- 4 years, the mean age of disease onset was 9 +/- 4 years and the mean duration of illness was 7 +/- 5 years. The female to male ratio was 2.5:1. Twenty-five percent of the cases had relatives with SLE. Eight patients (25%) had sickle cell anemia (SCA). Systems involved were as follows: skin (93%), kidney (81%), musculoskeletal system (65%), blood (56%), gastrointestinal tract (31%), central nervous system (31%), lungs and cardiovascular system (21%). Serological tests showed: positive antinuclear antibody in 90.6%, and positive anti double-stranded DNA antibody in 65%. The morbidity rate was 21% (n=7) due to complication and 12.5% (n=4) died.
Conclusion:
Clinical and serological results were comparable with the international studies. Nephritis was the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Coexistence of SLE with SCA was also reported in other studies and may need further investigation with genetic studies.
Related Concept Videos
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management
Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
