Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, complex autoimmune disease characterized by the immune system's abnormal attack on healthy tissues and organs, leading to widespread inflammation and multi-system involvement. It is the most common form of lupus, affecting various body systems including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and blood vessels. Key features include variable symptoms such as joint pain and swelling, butterfly-shaped facial rashes, fever, fatigue, and neurological manifestations like seizures or cognitive impairment. SLE is driven by a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors, with periods of disease flares alternating with remissions. The disease can progress over time, potentially resulting in life-threatening complications such as nephritis or cardiovascular issues. Laboratory findings often include elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, presence of LE cells, and autoantibodies against nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens. Children may develop a more severe form known as childhood-onset SLE, highlighting the disease’s diverse clinical presentation and systemic impact.