Cardiovascular Disorders in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease impacting multiple organs, notably the cardiovascular (CV) system.
• Cardiac involvement in SLE is common, often asymptomatic initially, manifesting as accelerated atherosclerosis, premature coronary artery disease (CAD), and increased risk of CV complications.
• CV disease (CVD) risk in SLE is influenced by traditional risk factors and disease-specific elements like disease activity, autoantibodies, organ damage, and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss cardiovascular manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
• To highlight the increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in SLE patients, including accelerated atherosclerosis and its complications.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management strategies for cardiac involvement in SLE.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of cardiovascular aspects in SLE.
• Discussion of disease-specific factors contributing to CVD risk in SLE patients.
• Evaluation of diagnostic modalities, including echocardiography with global longitudinal strain, for cardiac assessment.

Main Results:

• Accelerated atherosclerosis is the primary cause of death in SLE patients, progressing faster than in the general population.
• Cardiovascular risk is elevated in SLE, particularly with antiphospholipid antibodies.
• Clinical presentations range from angina to myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant threat to SLE patients, driven by accelerated atherosclerosis.
• Early and thorough cardiac evaluation using tools like echocardiography is essential for timely intervention.
• Managing SLE-related cardiovascular ailments requires a multifaceted approach considering disease phenotypes, biomarkers, and therapeutic options.