Clinical features of systemic lupus erythematosus

Descriptive and analytic clinical research investigations dealing with systemic lupus erythematosus have focused on disease manifestations involving the heart, kidneys, and central nervous system, the complications of corticosteroid therapy, particularly cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease, and outcomes of pregnancy. Studies exploring prognostic factors in patients with lupus nephritis as well as risk factors for the development of cardiovascular disease emphasize the importance of control of comorbid conditions, particularly hypertension and hyperlipidemia, in preventing poor outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. The effectiveness of parenterally administered pulse cyclophosphamide has been demonstrated in patients with severe central nervous system involvement, and the effectiveness of plasmapheresis in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura was reviewed.