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Published on: November 1, 2015
An Update on Treatment and Management of Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Amit Thakral1, Marisa S Klein-Gitelman2
1Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA. athakral@luriechildrens.org.
Insights
Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) requires early immunosuppression for better outcomes. Multidisciplinary care and patient education are crucial for managing this lifelong condition in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects 20% of patients in childhood, presenting unique challenges.
- Childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) carries higher morbidity and mortality risks compared to adult-onset disease.
- Effective management aims to reduce disease activity and enhance quality of life through early intervention.
Approach:
- A multidisciplinary team approach is essential for managing the complexities of pediatric SLE.
- Early immunosuppressive therapy is a cornerstone of treatment to control disease progression.
- Empowering young patients with disease ownership prepares them for lifelong self-management.
Key Points:
- cSLE necessitates aggressive management strategies.
- Integrated care involving various specialists optimizes treatment outcomes.
- Patient and family education is vital for adherence and long-term well-being.
Conclusions:
- Current pediatric SLE management focuses on early, aggressive, and multidisciplinary care.
- Long-term outcomes are improved by addressing disease activity and fostering patient self-efficacy.
- Continued research into optimal pediatric SLE treatment protocols is warranted.
Abstract:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disorder in which 20 % of patients are diagnosed in childhood. Childhood-onset SLE is associated with higher morbidity and mortality than adult-onset SLE. The aims of disease management with early immunosuppression are to decrease disease activity and improve quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary due to the complexity of lupus in pediatric patients. It is important to provide patients with high quality of care and to instill ownership of their disease process from a young age to prepare them to manage this life-long illness. This article reviews current management of SLE in children.
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