85% female predominance; this predominance is 3:1 in prepubertal patients.
Generally occurs from 15 to 50 years of age
Most commonly found in African-Americans, Asians, Native Americans and Hispanics
Familial (genetic) factors -- common genetic markers for SLE are the genes for HLA-B8, DR2 and DR3. There may be other markers for this disease (complement deficiencies and polymorphisms of the Fc gene).
Anti-nuclear antibody is usually positive (though not specific)
Anti-double stranded DNA antibodies and anti-Sm antibodies are relatively specific for lupus (but not as sensitive)
Antiphospholipid antibodies may occur. These increase the risk of blood clots and miscarriages.
No specific therapy
Mild -- supportive only
Anti-inflammatories, e.g., ibuprofen
Hydroxychloroquine (person should be monitored for retinal damage by an ophthalmologist)
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for more severe cases.
Cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil or azathioprine may be considered for cases resistant to prednisone.
If antiphospholipid antibodies are present and clotting occurs in arterial or venous systems, then Coumadin is prescribed.
Dialysis and renal transplantation
Rheumatoid arthritis
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Wegener's granulomatosis
Scleroderma
Polymyositis/dermatomyositis
Spontaneous exacerbations and remissions
The 5-year survival rate is 90% or higher, but the disease may still progress in many patients.
Patients can die from kidney failure, central nervous system complications, infections, heart failure, or lung failure.
Medication-induced lupus:
Certain medications can cause a lupus-like syndrome.
The most common medications are chlorpromazine, hydralazine, isoniazid, methyldopa, procainamide, dilantin, and quinidine.
