Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by widespread inflammation and damage across multiple organ systems. SLE is highly heterogeneous, with clinical manifestations ranging from mild cutaneous symptoms to severe organ-threatening complications involving the kidneys, lungs, heart, and central nervous system.

The hallmark of SLE is immune system dysregulation, where the body produces autoantibodies targeting nuclear, cytoplasmic, and cell surface antigens. These immune complexes deposit in tissues and trigger a sustained inflammatory response, leading to tissue damage. The unpredictable nature of disease flares and remission cycles adds complexity to disease management and increases the risk of cumulative organ damage over time.

Clinically, SLE presents with a wide spectrum of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, photosensitivity, and serositis. Severe cases may involve nephritis, pulmonary involvement, cardiovascular complications, and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Disease progression and organ involvement vary significantly between individuals, contributing to the overall challenge of diagnosis and treatment.

Management of SLE aims to control inflammation, prevent flares, and protect organs from damage. Treatment strategies often include corticosteroids, antimalarials, immunosuppressive agents, and targeted biologic therapies. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and individualized treatment approaches are critical for improving long-term outcomes and quality of life for patients living with SLE.

Biomarkers provide valuable insight into the biological processes driving disease activity in SLE. They offer a non-invasive way to track tissue damage, inflammation, and fibrotic progression—especially when traditional biomarkers fall short in capturing disease heterogeneity or predicting flares.