Cardiac Involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease caused by the production of autoantibodies, which form pathogenic immune complexes that deposit in multiple organs, leading to the multisystem involvement characteristic of SLE. Cardiovascular complications contribute substantially to the morbidity and mortality associated with SLE. Thus, this review discusses the cardiac manifestations of SLE, including the epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment options. Furthermore, we discuss the role of autoantibodies, endothelial dysfunction, and immune complex-mediated injury in the pathogenesis of SLE. Finally, we discuss emerging therapies and future research directions aimed at mitigating cardiac complications in SLE.

Keywords: SLE; cardiac; endocarditis; myocarditis; pericarditis.