title: Systemic lupus erythematosus. How to manage this chronic, complicated disorder.
abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of unknown cause characterized by exacerbations and remissions. Disease manifestations are diverse, but the most common symptoms are fatigue, fever, weight loss, skin rash, arthritis or arthralgias, and anemia. Clinical findings and measurement of antibody titers are the most common diagnostic criteria. Individualized therapy with corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, or antimalarial agents and careful monitoring of disease activity are essential.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family Practice, University of Louisville School of Medicine, KY 40292.
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Roberts
authors.forename: W M
authors.initials: WM
authors.lastname: Hughes
mesh_terms: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001323:Autoantibodies / Q000032:analysis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D001323:Autoantibodies; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents