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Comparison of lupus activity indices
1Bloomsbury Rheumatology Unit, Department of Rheumatology Research, University College and Middlesex School of Medicine, London, U.K.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has many symptoms, making it hard to measure disease activity. Two international workshops reviewed three systems (BILAG, SLAM, SLEDAI) to improve agreement on lupus disease indices.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by diverse clinical manifestations, often referred to as its 'many faces'.
- Lack of consensus on disease indices has historically hindered standardized assessment of SLE activity.
- The complexity of SLE mirrors the mythological Hydra, where addressing one aspect can reveal or generate others.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the challenges in defining and measuring SLE disease activity.
- To present the outcomes of international workshops focused on SLE disease indices.
- To evaluate the utility of the BILAG, SLAM, and SLEDAI systems for assessing lupus.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and clinical experience regarding SLE manifestations.
- Analysis of data and discussions from two international workshops.
- Comparative evaluation of three prominent SLE disease activity indices: BILAG, SLAM, and SLEDAI.
Main Results:
- The workshops highlighted significant variability and challenges in current SLE assessment methods.
- The BILAG, SLAM, and SLEDAI systems were examined for their strengths and weaknesses in capturing disease activity.
- Progress was made towards achieving consensus on standardized SLE disease indices.
Conclusions:
- Agreement on standardized measures for SLE disease activity may be within reach.
- Standardized indices are crucial for consistent clinical trials and patient management in SLE.
- Further refinement and validation of selected indices are recommended.