Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
(SLE)
SLE is a multiorgan connective tissue disease affecting mostly women.
This disease is due to an immune- complex mechanism. Viral infections or photosensitivity reaction could trigger the release of DNA and other mucoproteins from the cells thereby evoking production of anti-DNA antibodies.
Clinically, the affected individuals will manifest the following symptoms:
1. Malar rash
– this rash is described as fixed erythema, flat or raised over the malar eminences and sparing the nasolabial folds
2. Discoid rash
– this is an erythematous raised patches with an adherent keratotic scaling and follicular plugging
3. Photosensitivity
– there is an appearance of a skin rash as a result of unusual reaction to sunlight
4. Oral ulcers
– these ulcers in the mouth or nasopharyngeal areas are painless
5. Arthritis
– this is nonerosive and involves two or more peripheral joints, tender, swollen and with effusion
6. Serositis
– pleuritic pain evident of pleural effusion
– pericarditis as seen by ecg
7. Renal disorders
– there is persistent proteinuria in the urine
8. Neurologic disorders
– seizures maybe present
9. Hematologic disorders
– leukopenia and or lymphopenia is present
10. Immunologic disorders
– presence of LE cell and anti DNA antibody in abnormal titer; anti Sm may be present too
11. Antinuclear antibody
– the presence of this antibody in abnormal titer may be indicative of SLE