Systemic lupus erythematosus in Chinese: the Singapore experience

A clinical survey of idiopathic systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was conducted in 183 Chinese patients from 1970-1980. The major initial manifestations were skin and mucous membrane involvement (52%), fever and malaise (48%), arthritis and arthralgia (44%). Renal and neuropsychiatric involvements are described in some detail. Five-year survival was 70% and 10-year survival was 60%. The three major causes of death were renal, neurologic and infective. Factors contributing to this relatively high mortality compared with Western series are discussed.