Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

Annu Rev Med. 2023 Jan 27:74:339-352. doi: 10.1146/annurev-med-043021-032611. Epub 2022 Jul 8.

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a devastating autoimmune disease that can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis and treatment of SLE are clinical challenges. Patient presentation and response to therapy are heterogeneous because of the complex immune dysregulation that results in SLE disease pathogenesis. An intricate interplay between genetic risk and skewing of adaptive and innate immune system responses leads to overproduction of type I interferons and other cytokines, complement activation, immune-complex deposition, and ultimately inflammation and tissue damage. Here, we review the classification criteria as well as standard and emerging diagnostic tools available to identify patients with SLE. We then focus on medical management, including novel therapeutics, nonpharmacologic interventions, and comorbidity management.

Keywords: biologic; interferon; lupus; therapies.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cytokines
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Interferon Type I*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic* / drug therapy
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic* / therapy

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interferon Type I