systemic lupus erythematosus in the elderly

Etiology: - drug-induced lupus Epidemiology: - female predominance is reduced* Clinical manifestations: 1) longer* duration of symptoms from onset to diagnosis 2) increased* frequency of: a) pneumonitis b) serositis c) myositis d) hematologic cytopenias 3) more* sicca symptoms 4) more* peripheral neuropathy 5) no difference in arthralgias/arthritis 6) decreased* frequency of: a) alopecia b) malar rash c) photosensitivity d) oral/nasal ulcers e) glomerulonephritis f) lymphadenopathy Laboratory: 1) higher* frequency of anti SSA/Ro 2) higher* frequency of anti SSB/La 3) higher* frequency of antihistone antibodies 4) higher* frequency of anti-single strand DNA 5) anti-double-stranded DNA not age-dependent * in comparison to younger patients Management: see systemic lupus erythematosus

General

rheumatologic disorders in the elderly systemic lupus erythematosus

References

Weiner S, In: UCLA Intensive Course in Geriatric Medicine & Board Review, Marina Del Ray, CA, Sept 12-15, 2001