[The late results of dispensary observation in systemic lupus erythematosus]

Analysis of a 12-year follow-up SLE patients.

In the course of a 12-year follow-up of 104 SLE patients the following tests were made: biochemical (acute-phase blood proteins), immunological (circulating immune complexes, IgA, IgM, IgG, complement system, rheumatoid factor), functional (ECG, echoCG) and others. The authors also made correction of the maintenance therapy, determined indications for pulse-therapy with glucocorticosteroids and cytostatics, extracorporeal and hospital regimens.

10-year survival reached 63.4%. 21.5% of patients died. Main causes of death were acute disturbance of cerebral circulation, chronic renal failure, sepsis, acute myocardial infarction, autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Age under 26 years, male sex, renal lesion with nephrotic syndrome, skin lesions combined with cerebrovasculitis, polyserositis, absence of chemotherapy with glucocorticosteroids in doses up to 15 mg/day, cytostatics, of plasmapheresis or pulse-therapy indicated poor prognosis. SLE ran favourably more frequently in females, at age over 37, duration of the disease at least 10 years, glucocorticosteroids intake in doses 20 mg/day and higher.

Follow-up is an important element in the complex of rehabilitation measures in SLE patients.