Changing patterns in the clinical features and prognosis of systemic lupus erythematosus - a Japanese experience

The changing patterns of clinical features and prognosis of 307 Japanese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were studied. SLE patients with Raynaud's phenomenon, alopecia and oral ulceration increased significantly in Group B (1970-1979) compared to Group A (1955-1969). It was noted that SLE patients with LE cells were significantly fewer in Group B and in Group A. The prognosis of Group B was significantly improved over that of Group A. There was a significant decline in deaths caused by uremia and central nervous system lupus in Group B.