Evidence-based treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus and its complications

Abstract

Outcomes for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have improved during the last two decades as our understanding of
the disease expands. In particular, the importance of antimalarial therapy for addressing and preventing a host of complications in SLE
has emerged. Furthermore, evidence is mounting that corticosteroids, while offering excellent control of disease activity, are responsible
for many of the late complications of SLE and need to be prescribed in modest doses for the shortest time possible. To achieve this, an
understanding of the available ‘steroid-sparing’ immunosuppressants is useful. Specific attention needs to be paid to the two most important
complications of SLE, i.e. infections and atherosclerotic cardiovascular events. Awareness of, screening for and aggressive management of
risk factors for these comorbidities are paramount.