SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHMATOSUS Flashcards
Define systemic lupus erythmatosus.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous, inflammatory, multisystem autoimmune disease in which antinuclear antibodies occur (often years before clinical symptoms).
Which virus has been implicated as a possible trigger for SLE?
EBV
What are the defects in SLE?
Failure of self tolerance by the T and B cells
Defects in apoptosis system
To make a positive diagnosis of SLE what are the antibodies that we are looking?
Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA)
Are ANA’s specific to SLE?
No. The different subtypes are present in a number of connective tissue disorders including Sjögren’s syndrome, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, autoimmune hepatitis and drug induced lupus.
What is c1q?
It is a subtype of compliment involved in clearing debris of apoptosic cells.
How might a patient with suspected SLE present? (Name 3 symptoms)
Butterfly rash
Fatigue
Joint pain
Are CRP and ESR both classically raised in SLE?
No. Normally only ESR is raised. However, if there is infection at the time, then CRP may well be raised.
What are some of the monoclonal antibodies that are used in the treatment of SLE?
Rituximab
Belimumab
Erpratuzamab - currently undergoing trials
What is the peak age for females to develop symptoms of SLE?
50-54
What is the peak age for males to develop symptoms of SLE?
70-74
What is the ratio of women to men in terms of those affected by SLE?
10:1 - 5:1
What are the risk factors for developing SLE?
Certain HLA-DRB1 types e.g DR3 and DR2 Also HLA-B8 Defective C4 complement gene - develop a lupus-like illness UV light EBV Drugs
What are the drugs that can induce Lupus?
Chlorpromazine - antipsychotic
Methyldopa - Parkinson’s
Hydralazine - Anti-hypertensive
Isoniazid - TB
d-Penicillamine - Immunosuppressive for RA
Minocycline - broad spectrum tetracycline antibiotic
How might someone with suspected SLE present to their GP?
Fatigue Malaise Fever Weight loss Arthralgia with early morning stiffness Oral ulcers Photosensitive skin rashes - malar rash, urticaria Pleuritic chest pain Headache Paraesthesia Dry eyes Dry Mouth Raynaud's phenomenon Mild hair loss
What part of the face does the classic malar rash seen in SLE not affect?
Naso-labial fold
What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?
Excessively reduced blood flow in response to cold or stress, causing discoloration (white then blue then red) of fingers.