Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies that result in the inflammation of multiple organs, including the skin and musculoskeletal, renal, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. Treatment includes the use of immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive agents to target specific organ manifestations. The treatment goal in SLE is to reduce disease activity and prevent organ damage and death. Optimal long-term outcomes require not only treatment of the disease, but also the management of comorbidities. This paper reviews treatments of SLE with the aim of improving outcomes.