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Questions and Answers
What is a common symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that affects the skin?
Which of the following is a symptom commonly associated with SLE kidney involvement?
What type of antibodies are produced by the immune system in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
Which system in the human body does systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) primarily affect?
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What makes the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) challenging?
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Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
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What are the main factors believed to contribute to the loss of immunological tolerance in systemic lupus erythematosus?
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Which antibody is commonly detected in the majority of people with systemic lupus erythematosus?
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What is one of the criteria developed by the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) for the classification of systemic lupus erythematosus?
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Which test alone does not confirm a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus due to possible positive results in other conditions?
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What organization has developed classification criteria to assist in the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus?
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What is one of the tests used to evaluate organ involvement and support the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus?
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Study Notes
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems in the human body. It is characterized by the production of autoantibodies against nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens, leading to inflammation and damage to various organs. SLE symptoms can vary widely and may involve the skin, joints, kidneys, blood cells, and nervous system.
Symptoms
SLE symptoms can be diverse and non-specific, making the diagnosis challenging. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling
- Skin rashes, particularly a "butterfly" rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
- Mouth sores
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Swollen lymph nodes
The severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they may come and go over time. SLE can also cause inflammation in various organs, leading to specific symptoms related to the affected organ. For example, kidney involvement can cause proteinuria and urinary cellular casts, while nervous system involvement can result in seizures, headaches, and memory problems.
Autoimmune response
SLE is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. In SLE, the immune system produces autoantibodies that target nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. The precise mechanisms underlying this autoimmune response are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immunological, endocrine, and environmental factors that contribute to the loss of immunological tolerance against self-antigens.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of SLE is based on a combination of clinical findings, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) have developed classification criteria to assist in the diagnosis of SLE. These criteria include specific symptoms, physical findings, and laboratory tests.
One of the most essential tests for diagnosing SLE is the detection of antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which are present in the majority of people with the disease. However, a positive ANA test alone does not confirm a diagnosis of SLE, as other conditions can also produce positive ANA results. Other laboratory tests, such as complete blood count (CBC) with differential, serum creatinine, urinalysis, and imaging tests, may also be used to evaluate organ involvement and support the diagnosis of SLE.
In addition to these criteria, the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) has developed criteria that require at least one clinical and one immunologic criterion for classification as SLE. These criteria have improved the sensitivity and specificity of SLE diagnosis compared to the 1997 ACR criteria.
Conclusion
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex autoimmune disease that can cause a wide range of symptoms affecting various organ systems. The diagnosis of SLE requires a thorough understanding of the disease, including its symptoms, autoimmune response, and diagnostic criteria. Although there is no cure for SLE, treatments are available to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
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Description
Explore the symptoms, autoimmune response, and diagnostic criteria of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organ systems. Learn about the diverse symptoms, the immune system's role in SLE development, and the tests used for diagnosing the condition.
