Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Flashcards
What does SLE stand for?
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Why is SLE considered a “systemic” disorder?
Because it affects multiple organs and systems in the body.
What does “erythematosus” refer to in SLE?
It refers to the typical red malar rash across the face.
Who is more commonly affected by SLE?
- Women<br></br>- Individuals of Asian, African, Caribbean, and Hispanic ethnicity<br></br>- Young to middle-aged adults
Describe the course of SLE.
SLE typically takes a relapsing-remitting course, with flares of worse symptoms and periods where symptoms settle.
What are significant complications of SLE?
Cardiovascular disease and infection are significant complications.
What characterizes the pathophysiology of SLE?
SLE is characterized by anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), which are autoantibodies against proteins within the cell nucleus. These antibodies generate a chronic inflammatory response, leading to the condition’s features.
What are some non-specific symptoms of SLE?
- Fatigue<br></br>- Weight loss<br></br>- Arthralgia (joint pain)<br></br>- Non-erosive arthritis<br></br>- Myalgia (muscle pain)<br></br>- Fever<br></br>- Photosensitive malar rash<br></br>- Lymphadenopathy<br></br>- Splenomegaly<br></br>- Shortness of breath<br></br>- Pleuritic chest pain<br></br>- Mouth ulcers<br></br>- Hair loss<br></br>- Raynaud’s phenomenon<br></br>- Oedema (due to nephritis)
What is the characteristic appearance of the malar rash in SLE?
The malar rash is “butterfly” shaped across the nose and cheeks, triggered or worsened by sunlight.
What are some abnormal findings in investigations for SLE?
- Autoantibodies<br></br>- Full blood count may show anemia of chronic disease, low white cell count, and low platelets<br></br>- Elevated CRP and ESR with active inflammation<br></br>- Decreased C3 and C4 levels in active disease<br></br>- Urinalysis and urine protein:creatinine ratio showing proteinuria in lupus nephritis<br></br>- Renal biopsy used to investigate lupus nephritis
What is the significance of anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) in SLE diagnosis?
Around 85% of patients with SLE will be positive for ANA (SENSTIVE) . A positive result needs to be interpreted in the context of their symptoms, as it can also be positive in healthy individuals and those with other autoimmune conditions(NOT SPECIFIC).
What is the specificity of anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies in SLE?
Anti-dsDNA antibodies are highly specific to SLE. A positive result suggests SLE rather than other causes. Approximately half of patients with SLE have anti-dsDNA antibodies, and their levels vary with disease activity, making them useful in monitoring disease activity and treatment response.
What does an extractable nuclear antigen panel look for, and how does it aid in the diagnosis of connective tissue disorders?
The panel looks for antibodies to specific proteins in the cell nucleus. It helps diagnose and distinguish between specific connective tissue disorders. Examples include:<br></br>- Anti-Sm (highly specific to SLE but not very sensitive)<br></br>- Anti-centromere antibodies (associated with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis)<br></br>- Anti-Ro and anti-La (associated with Sjögren’s syndrome)<br></br>- Anti-Scl-70 (associated with systemic sclerosis)<br></br>- Anti-Jo-1 (associated with dermatomyositis)
What complications can arise from antiphospholipid antibodies in SLE, and what is their association with venous thromboembolism?
Antiphospholipid antibodies can lead to antiphospholipid syndrome in up to 40% of SLE patients, increasing the risk of venous thromboembolism.
What criteria are used for the diagnosis of SLE, and what organizations developed them?
The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) / American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria (2019) can be used for diagnosis. These criteria consider clinical features and autoantibodies suggestive of SLE.
What are the leading causes of death in SLE, and how does chronic inflammation contribute to cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in SLE. Chronic inflammation in blood vessels leads to hypertension and coronary artery disease.
What are some complications of SLE related to the hematologic system?
- Anemia of chronic disease<br></br>- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia<br></br>- Bone marrow suppression by medications<br></br>- Kidney disease contributing to anemia, leucopenia (low white cells), neutropenia (low neutrophils), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets)
What are the manifestations of pericarditis and pleuritis in SLE?
- Pericarditis causes sharp chest pain that worsens on lying flat.<br></br>- Pleuritis causes sharp chest pain on inspiration.
How does lupus nephritis contribute to end-stage renal failure in SLE, and what investigations are involved in its assessment?
Lupus nephritis (inflammation in the kidney) can becauses by diffuce proliferative glomerulonephritis. Investigations include a urine protein:creatinine ratio and renal biopsy. The renal biopsy is often repeated to assess the response to treatment.
What is neuropsychiatric SLE, and what are some manifestations of it?
Neuropsychiatric SLE is caused by inflammation in the central nervous system. It can present with optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve), transverse myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord), or psychosis.
What are the reproductive complications associated with SLE?
Recurrent miscarriage is more common in SLE. There is also an increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction, pre-eclampsia, and pre-term labor.
How is venous thromboembolism associated with antiphospholipid syndrome in SLE?
Antiphospholipid syndrome occurring secondary to SLE is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism.
What are essential measures in managing the photosensitive malar rash in SLE?
Suncream and sun avoidance are essential measures.
Name the first-line treatment options for SLE.
- Hydroxychloroquine<br></br>- NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)<br></br>- Steroids (e.g., prednisolone)
What are the treatment options for resistant or more severe SLE?
- DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs) such as methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclophosphamide<br></br>- Biologic therapies
Which biological therapy targets the CD20 protein on B cells?
Rituximab
What is the target of Belimumab, a monoclonal antibody used in SLE treatment?
Belimumab targets B-cell activating factor.
How does Rituximab work in treating SLE?
Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 protein on the surface of B cells.
What is the role of Hydroxychloroquine in SLE treatment?
Hydroxychloroquine is a first-line treatment option that aims to control symptoms and reduce complications.
Besides their anti-inflammatory effects, what additional property makes NSAIDs useful in SLE?
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are used for their anti-inflammatory effects and can help alleviate joint pain and other symptoms in SLE.
In more severe cases, what class of drugs, abbreviated as DMARDs, might be used in SLE treatment?
DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs) such as methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclophosphamide may be used in more severe or resistant cases of SLE.
What is the significance of Biologic therapies in SLE management?
Biologic therapies, including Rituximab and Belimumab, offer treatment options for resistant or severe cases of SLE. They target specific pathways involved in the disease process.
What is the role of Steroids in SLE treatment?
Steroids, such as prednisolone, are first-line treatment options that help control inflammation and manage symptoms in SLE.
Why is sun avoidance important in managing the photosensitive malar rash in SLE?
Sun avoidance is crucial in managing the photosensitive malar rash as sunlight can trigger or worsen the rash. Suncream is also recommended to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
What does SLE stand for?
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus