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Lupus Vasculitis

  • Vasculitis (L Espinoza, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Rheumatology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this manuscript is to review the most recent literature pertinent to the presence of vasculitis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), including previously published landmark articles and studies and to update the different clinical and diagnostic aspects of vasculitic manifestations in patients with this important autoimmune disorder. As a multisystem autoimmune disease, systemic lupus may attack practically any organ system in the human body. Even though vasculitis is not the most common presentation or pathogenic mechanism of disease, it frequently causes significant morbidity and mortality in patients with SLE. The most common manifestation of lupus vasculitis is cutaneous involvement; visceral involvement is less common but causes severe disease; it may occur in different areas including central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, gastrointestinal system, kidneys, lungs and even retina.

Recent Findings

Recent findings regarding the pathogenesis of lupus CNS and peripheral nerve disease, and vascular injury in lupus nephritis are reviewed as well.

Summary

Vasculitis is an uncommon but serious manifestation of SLE; it may involve different organ systems and present in a wide variety of clinical syndromes, and thus the importance of its recognition and early diagnosis by physicians who deal with this disease, in order to start prompt and aggressive therapy when indicated.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Acknowledgements

Allison Dowdell from the section of scientific publications at Mayo Clinic Florida for her help with manuscript preparation and support.

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  1. Clinica SOMER, Calle 38 #No. 54A-35, Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia

    Estefania Calle-Botero

  2. Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA

    Andy Abril

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Correspondence to Andy Abril.

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Calle-Botero, E., Abril, A. Lupus Vasculitis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 22, 71 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-020-00937-0

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