title: Systemic lupus erythematosus: epidemiology, pathophysiology, manifestations, and management.
abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by production of autoantibodies directed against nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens, affecting several organs. Although cause is largely unknown, pathophysiology is attributed to several factors. Clinically, this disorder is characterized by periods of remission and relapse and may present with various constitutional and organ-specific symptoms. Diagnosis is achieved via clinical findings and laboratory examinations. Therapies are based on disease activity and severity. General treatment considerations include sun protection, diet and nutrition, smoking cessation, exercise, and appropriate immunization, whereas organ-specific treatments include use of steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressive agents, and biologic agents.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Medicine, Carolinas Medical Center, 1000 Blythe Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA.
authors.forename: Giulio
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Fortuna
authors.forename: Michael T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Brennan
mesh_terms: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000276:immunology / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents
keywords: Diagnosis; Epidemiology; Pathophysiology; Systemic lupus erythematous; Treatment