Systemic lupus erythematosus: overview, management and COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex, multi-system autoimmune disease.
• The exact etiology of SLE is unknown but involves immune dysregulation, environmental factors, and viral susceptibility.
• High mortality rates in SLE are primarily attributed to cardiovascular disease, infections, and lupus nephritis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
• To outline current clinical assessment and management strategies for SLE.
• To discuss emerging treatments and considerations for patients with refractory disease.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on SLE etiology, clinical presentation, and management.
• Emphasis on comprehensive clinical assessment including history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
• Discussion of patient-clinician shared decision-making and specialist nurse support.

Main Results:

• Clinical assessment requires a thorough history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory investigations.
• Effective SLE management necessitates understanding disease complications and comorbidities.
• Current SLE treatments may increase risks associated with COVID-19, requiring careful consideration.

Conclusions:

• Management of SLE should be individualized, involving shared decision-making between patients and clinicians.
• Specialist nurse involvement is crucial for patient support and education in SLE.
• Emerging therapies hold promise for patients with refractory SLE, improving long-term outcomes.