Systemic lupus erythematosus. A review of 110 cases with reference to nephritis, the nervous system, infections, aseptic necrosis and prognosis

Abstract

Observations made on 110 patients with SLE over a four and a half year period have been reviewed. The patients were seen at intervals of two months when, both clinical and serological findings were recorded, according to a set protocol. The results have been presented with particular reference to nephritis, neurological manifestations, infections, aseptic necrosis, mortality and predicted survival. Such studies have led to the identification of various prognosis factors in SLE, and assisted in providing better directed therapy. The results indicate a milder from of SLE in the patients of this series when compared with previously published studies, and is more representative of the wide spectrum of disease severity seen in the general population.