Handpicked Reviews of Contemporary Literature
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus, often called SLE or lupus, is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, nervous system, and other organs of the body. It is sometimes labeled the “great imitator” because its wide variety of symptoms can often be confused with other disorders. Usually, patients with SLE experience skin rashes and arthritis as well as fatigue and fever, and the disease can be fatal. However, improvements in therapy have significantly increased these patients’ quality of life and their life expectancy.
The Brain in Lupus
The Mary Kirkland Center lupus conference offers insight into cognitive aspects of SLE
State-of-the-Art Clinical Symposium
The 2008 ACR State-of-the-Art Clinical Symposium will present current, cutting-edge information on a broad array of topics in rheumatology.
Reading Rheum
Handpicked Reviews of Contemporary Literature
Rheumatology’s Mentor
Halsted R. Holman, MD, couples a stellar career with a knack for helping others achieve their potential
A Yardstick for Lupus
Personal history of the BILAG index
Reading Rheum
Handpicked Reviews of Contemporary Literature
Free Lupus CD
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases is offering a free CD entitled “Lupus and Other Related Information for You and Your Patients.” The CD contains Lupus: A Patient Guide for Nurses and Other Health Professionals, 3rd Edition.
Some Lupus Tests Yield False Results
The ACR’s Regional Advisory Council (RAC) has received several member reports of false results on antinuclear antibody (ANA) tests. The test screens for systemic lupus erythematosus, drug-induced lupus, and other diseases. Results are used to direct treatment, so accuracy is crucial.