Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Italy: an Italian prevalence study based on a two-step strategy in an area of Florence (Scandicci-Le Signe).
BACKGROUND
The goal was to ascertain the prevalence of SLE in the population over 18 years of age in the Scandicci-Le Signe area of Florence, Italy, based on the records of general practitioners (GPs).


METHODS
Twenty GPs screened 32,521 patients by administering the Lupus Screening Questionnaire (LQS) and found 30 patients with suspected or definite diagnosis of SLE. To confirm the diagnoses the patients were referred to a rheumatologist who conducted routine examinations and assessed antinuclear antibodies and SLE activity (ECLAM score).


RESULTS
Total population >18 years of age in the three municipalities was 71,204 persons, with 42,474 in Scandicci, 15,368 in Lastra a Signa, and 13,362 in Signa. In 23/30 patients diagnosed with SLE the diagnosis was confirmed. Eleven of the 23 SLE patients were from Scandicci and 6 each from Lastra a Signa and Signa. An overall estimated prevalence of SLE of 71/100,000 (1/1408; 95% CI=49, 92) was found in the total population of the three municipalities. Scandicci (95% CI=42, 121) had a rate of 81/100.000, while Lastra a Signa (95% CI=32, 92) and Signa (95% CI=36, 94) had estimated rates of 62/100,000 and 65/100,000, respectively. Medium ECLAM score was 4.68+/-1.81 SD.


CONCLUSIONS
This is the first epidemiological study on SLE prevalence in Italy. The prevalence and point prevalence are similar to other European studies. The LQS was also confirmed as an easy and reliable tool to assess SLE diagnosis in the Italian population.
Benucci
Maurizio
M
Rheumatology Unit ASL 10 Florence, Florence, Italy. maubenucci@tiscali.it
Del Rosso
Angela
A
Li Gobbi
Francesca
F
Manfredi
Mariangela
M
Cerinic
Marco Matucci
MM
Salvarani
Carlo
C
D000328:Adult; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008403:Mass Screening; D008875:Middle Aged; D012219:Rheumatology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires