SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS – AN IMMUNOLOGICAL DISORDER: CLINICAL PRESENTATIONS AND THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by production of numerous autoantibodies and damage to multiple organs and systems. SLE most often affects heart, joints, skin, lungs, blood vessels, liver, and kidneys. SLE is seen in young women of childbearing age (20 – 40 years) but it may occur at any age. Like other autoimmune disorders etiology of SLE is unknown, but it includes many components such as genetic, environmental, hormonal, drugs, etc. Immune responses against endogenous nuclear antigens are characteristic of SLE. SLE is diagnosed on the basis of classification criteria established by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). The conventional treatment of SLE includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), anti-malarial agents, corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications. New treatment options for SLE include Belimumab, Mycophenolate mofetil, intravenous immunoglobulins, Rituximab, Atacicept etc. Main purpose of addition of new treatment modalities is prevention of complications of conventional treatment and to look for better therapeutic options.