T7 Arthritis and Connective Tissue Diseases

• What is systemic lupus erythematosus?

  Autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
• What demographics are SLE most commonly seen in?

  Young women and minorities.
• What infection can contribute to SLE?

  Epstein-Barr virus.
• What are clinical manifestations of SLE?

  Joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, fever, and kidney problems.
• Where are most skin lesions appearing from SLE?

  Sun exposed areas.
• What is usually the first symptom of SLE?

  Rash.
• What is CCLE?

  Discoid lesions on the scalp and face.
• What is SCLE?

  Red, ring shaped lesions where the disease is active.
• What is the most common sign of SLE?

  Butterfly rash over cheeks, bridge of nose, looks like a sunburn, and are not thick, scaly, scar or itch.
• What is another common skin problem associated with SLE?

  Alopecia.
• What abnormal labs may be seen with SLE?

  Antinuclear antibodies, anti-double-stranded DNA, anti-Smith.