Are lupus outcomes improving?

Significant progress has been made in improving the outcomes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) largely through advances in drug discovery as well as enhancements in overall clinical management. This review provides insights into the basis for observed improvements in long-term outcomes through analyses of organ damage, mortality, healthcare utilization, and quality of life.

Patients with SLE in the first half of the twentieth century faced a 50% chance of surviving beyond 7 years. However, in modern times, age standardized mortality has greatly improved, and comorbidities that adversely affect outcomes are receiving far more attention than in prior eras.

It is a remarkable era for patients with SLE, with multiple targeted therapies transforming management. Yet, damage prevention still begins with early diagnosis and rapid attainment of remission. Treat to target strategies should be coupled with adjunctive measures, such as strict blood pressure control as well as cardiovascular and metabolic risk management.