Systemic lupus erythematosus. Measures to keep this unpredictable disease under control.
SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease with an unpredictable history and course. It can occur in men or women at any age, but it is most prevalent in women of childbearing age. SLE displays a variety of clinical and laboratory manifestations that vary from vague constitutional symptoms to findings of end-organ dysfunction. Early recognition can lead to better treatment and preventive care, thereby avoiding the more aggressive renal, cardiovascular, and septic manifestations. Recognition and management of lupus flares and of medication side effects can markedly reduce morbidity and mortality, allowing patients to live more functional lives.
Greenberg
B
B
Department of Family Medicine, Rush-Presbyterian-St Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, USA. drbgrnbrg@aol.com
Michalska
M
M
D000367:Age Factors; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D011379:Prognosis; D011788:Quality of Life; D012307:Risk Factors; D018805:Sepsis / Q000517:prevention & control; D012737:Sex Factors; D015996:Survival Rate