Updates in the care and management of children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Purpose of review: This narrative review offers an update of the most important recent articles published in the previous year of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), focusing on care and management.

Recent findings: Age-related disparities may play a significant role in the clinical and laboratory characteristics of cSLE, as well as its performance in distinct classification criteria. Monogenic lupus is associated with higher disease damage scores and mortality rate compared to sporadic cSLE. Adolescent face unique challenges, with comorbid psychiatric diagnosis, low resilience and nonadherence posing relevant challenges. A recent international task force has outlined pivotal principles and points-to-consider for treat-to-target (T2T) in cSLE patients. While the past year did yield new randomized controlled trial for cSLE treatment, publications focused on broader management strategies, including the impact of ultraviolet radiation exposure, immunization, and strict blood pressure control. Additionally, case reports and series have evaluated the efficacy/safety profiles of both available and emerging treatments.

Summary: Current studies highlighted the various facets of cSLE, epidemiology, clinical, laboratory, classification criteria, adolescent issues, prognosis, surveillance, T2T approach and drug management. Despite notable progress, the scarcity of randomized trials emphasizes the need to delineate safer and more efficacious treatment modalities in cSLE.