SLE introduction Flashcards
What is SLE?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). It is an autoimmune disease which is characterised by wide spread inflammation and is a multi system disease. It tends to affect women of child-baring age. It is characterised by presence of autoantibodies against nuclear components and is more common in certain ethnic groups. The cause of lupus remains unknown. It is characterised by variable disease cause and remissions and relapses and can range from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms can range from rashes to multi-organ failure. There are present autoimmune B and T cells (Park 2012).
What are common features of SLE?
- hair loss
- oral and nasal ulcers
- rashes
- neurological involvement
- cardiac, lung, kidney involvement
- arthritis
- fevers
- fatigue
What is pathogenesis of SLE?
- Predisposition/triggers
- Immune system overactivity
- Production of autoantibodies against nuclear components of cells
- Leads to formation of immune complexes which deposit into tissues
- This causes further immune activation giving positive feedback
What are autoantibodies in SLE?
Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) are a hallmark of SLE:
- anti-dsDNA
- anti-chromatin
- anti-histone
- anti-extractable nuclear antigens (ENA) e.g. Ro or La
What are triggers for SLE flare?
- Sunlight
- Infection
- Stress (physical or emotional)
- Female hormones (typically oestrogen)
- Some drugs
What ethnic groups have higher prevalence to lupus?
Black and asian origin (Rees 2017)
Does lupus have higher mortality rate?
Yes, lupus has high mortality rate. 2.5 fold times higher risk of death. Mostly it’s because of infections, some cancers, renal disease/failure, cardiovascular disease. However, in recent years outcomes have significantly improved.
