Childhood-Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Review and Update

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune multisystem inflammatory disease that is associated with sizable morbidity and mortality.1 When lupus commences in an individual less than 18 years of age,2 it is commonly referred to as childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). With a reported incidence of 0.3-0.9 per 100  000 children per year, and a prevalence of 3.3-24 per 100 000 children,3 cSLE is rare. About 10%-20% of all patients with SLE are diagnosed during childhood. Typically, cSLE has a more severe clinical course than that seen in adults, with a higher prevalence of lupus nephritis, hematologic anom alies, photosensitivity, neuropsychiatric, and mucocutaneous involvement.
Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Medical progress Source Type: research