Multisystem disease

The aim of this topic is to review the pathophysiology of the systemic autoimmune diseases, with particular reference to systemic lupus erythematosus.

Learning objectives:

At the completion of this topic you should be able to:

  1. List the systemic autoimmune diseases and their common systemic manifestations.
  2. Classify systemic vasculitides according to the type of vessels affected.
  3. Describe the immunological derangements associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and relate them to the clinical manifestations.
  4. Outline the investigation of a patient with suspected systemic lupus erythematosus.
  5. Define the term "rheumatoid factor" and list the clinical associations.
  6. Describe the differing specificities of anti-nuclear antibodies and the respective clinical associations.
  7. Outline the potentially fatal complications of systemic lupus erythematosus affecting the central nervous system, kidneys, lung and blood.
  8. List the medications that can induce lupus erythematosus in susceptible patients.

Trial exam questions:

  1. Discuss the following statement: "Systemic lupus erythematosus is a prime example of disease mediated exclusively by type III hypersensitivity."
  2. Describe the clinical manifestations and complications of scleroderma.

Case protocol associated with this topic - 26

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