Comorbidities of antiphospholipid syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus in children

Area of Science:

• Autoimmune diseases
• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are autoimmune conditions impacting multiple organ systems.
• Improved survival in APS and SLE necessitates a focus on associated comorbidities.
• Comorbidities significantly influence disease course and patient prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review comorbidities in APS and SLE that negatively affect disease progression.
• To highlight the impact of comorbidities on patient outcomes.
• To inform clinicians about potential complications in APS and SLE management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on comorbidities in APS and SLE.
• Analysis of studies examining disease-related complications.
• Synthesis of findings on common and significant comorbidities.

Main Results:

• Infections are the most frequent comorbidity in pediatric APS and SLE, linked to immunosuppression and immune dysregulation.
• Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases are significant causes of mortality and morbidity.
• Increased risks include malignancies, ophthalmologic, neurologic, renal, and musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., vitamin D deficiency, low bone density, avascular necrosis).

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must be vigilant for comorbidities during the follow-up of APS and SLE patients.
• Understanding and managing comorbidities is essential for optimizing patient care.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the spectrum of comorbidities in APS and SLE.