For Physicians

1. Definition

2. Pathogenesis

3. Clinical Presentation

4. Laboratory Findings

5. Differential Diagnosis

6. Initial Treatment

7. Long-term Management Issues

8. Prognosis

9. When to Refer

1. Definition Lupus is both an acute and a chronic autoimmune, multisystem illness. Lupus has several forms: systemic (SLE), discoid (DLE, scarring rash only), drug-induced (DILE), and neonatal (NLE). For purposes of brevity, drug-induced lupus,[1] which is relatively rare, and discoid lupus are not discussed in this chapter.

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