Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Review of the Disease and Treatment Options

OBJECTIVE: To provide an up-to-date review of the etiology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic findings, and treatment options for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

DATA SOURCES: A PubMed search of English language articles using a combination of words: elderly, systemic lupus erythematosus*, late onset systemic lupus erythematosus*, etiology, screening, diagnosis, or treatment to identify original studies, guidelines, and reviews on systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE, and late onset systemic lupus erythematosus, published 2000 to present.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Original studies, clinical reviews, references, and guidelines were obtained and evaluated on their clinical relevance.

DATA SYNTHESIS: The literature included guidelines and considerations for the etiology, diagnosis, screening, and management of SLE.

CONCLUSION: SLE is a chronic autoimmune disorder. It predominantly affects younger women, but can occur in up to 20% of patients 50 years of age or older. SLE affects almost every system in the body, with varying degrees of severity. The diagnosis is based on criteria set by the American College of Rheumatology. Management is individualized and depends on presenting symptoms.