Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - Essay Example However, the disease epidemiology is incompletely understood (Rahman & Isenberg, 2008). The disease involves the production of IgG autoantibodies that are specific for self-antigens including DNA, nuclear proteins as well as cytoplasmic components. The disease, therefore, is characterized by inflammation, vasculitis, vasculopathy. Further, a deposition of the immune complex especially in the renal glomeruli leads to a systemic inflammatory response through activation of complement (C5), or of Fc{gamma}R-mediated neutrophil and macrophages. While the activation of former leads to the formation of membrane attack complexes (C5b-9) or anaphylatoxin and cell activator C5a; that of latter causes release of oxidants and proteases; both leading to injury (KEGG, 2009). The mechanism of the disease development has been proposed to involve an abnormal apoptosis followed by elevated levels of cell death and immune intolerance. Cellular antigen redistribution to the cell surface coupled with lym phocytes targeting them leads to injury and inflammation (Andrade et al., 2000). Treatment Diagnosis of SLE is based on the detection of high levels of antinuclear and other antibodies in the blood along with symptoms of SLE. The techniques used for the detection include urinalysis, CBC, ESR, complement levels, ANA (antinuclear antibody test) and other antibody tests, skin and kidney biopsy along with quarterly follow-ups. The treatment involves control of disease symptoms and is determined by the severity of the symptoms. Acute SLE involving CNS, cardiovascular and renal diseases are treated with high doses of intravenous steroids and cytotoxic therapy involving corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, antimalarials, and antipsychotic medication (D’Cruz, 2006). Prognosis Early detection is the key factor in the improved prognosis of SLE. Prognosis in severe cases to has shown marked improvement during the recent years as a consequence of aggressive treatments available. Common c omplications associated with SLE include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, hemolytic anemia, pericarditis, endocarditis, myocarditis etc (Makover, 2011). Health Disparity SLE exhibits high correlation with women of childbearing age and therefore has been associated with exogenous hormone intake (Costenbader et al., 2007). Lower socioeconomic status further has been linked to higher disease prevalence as well as resultant mortality. Prevalence and Epidemiology The National Arthritis Data Working Group reports that approximately 250,000 Americans have SLE, the worldwide prevalence rates vary with race, being higher in people with African and Asian origins. The disease is more common in the female sex and in individuals within the age group of 20-40yrs. (D’Cruz, 2006).