Infections in systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Infections are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Survival rates for SLE patients in developing countries are comparatively lower than those reported in industrialized countries, with early death from infection and active disease. In addition to the role of immunosuppressive agents in enhancing susceptibility to infection, infectious agents are also known to trigger lupus disease expression and activity. The endemicity of certain infections like tuberculosis further poses a special health issue in developing countries.