title: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Review of the Clinical Approach to Diagnosis and Update on Current Targeted Therapies.
abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, complicated and challenging disease to diagnose and treat. The etiology of SLE is unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified that lead to immune system dysfunction with antibody formation and immune complex deposition. This immune system dysregulation causes organ injury, contributing to the variable manifestations and relapsing-remitting course of the disease. Criteria were created to aide in the diagnosis, focusing on clinical manifestations and antibody profiles specific to SLE. Treatment options are limited to a few medications to control the inflammation and decrease organ damage. Continuing investigations into the pathogenesis of SLE has led to new discoveries, making more medications available to treat this difficult disease. [Full article available at http://rimed.org/rimedicaljournal-2016-12.asp].
authors.affiliation: Division of Rheumatology, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital and the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
authors.forename: Joanne Szczygiel
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Cunha
authors.affiliation: Division of Rheumatology, Roger Williams Medical Center, Providence, RI; Boston University School of Medicine.
authors.forename: Katarzyna
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Gilek-Seibert
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal
keywords: B-cell depletion and modulation; antibodies; autoimmunity; interferon blocking agents; systemic lupus erythematosus; treat to target