Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, complex rheumatological autoimmune disease with multisystem involvement, characterised by the production of autoantibodies, that predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Different genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors are involved in its pathogenesis, such as ultraviolet light or certain viral infections that interact in the body, resulting in a characteristic breakdown of tolerance. The clinical manifestations are very diverse (cutaneomucosal, joint, haematological, and renal), and lupus nephritis stands out due to its major influence on the patient's prognosis. Neuropsychiatric manifestations must also be considered since they are a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. Currently we have no pathognomonic test for diagnosis based on expert clinical judgement; however, criteria have been updated to aid classification. Given the complexity of the disease, a thorough differential diagnosis with other rheumatological, endocrinological, infectious and tumour diseases is essential.

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