Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Atherosclerosis

Abstract

Disorders likely ‘inflammatory’ in nature are known to be linked to accelerated atherosclerotic processes that increase the chances of cardiovascular disease. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a well-known autoimmune disease for its ability to affect any organ and cause morbidity. One such major cause of morbidity and mortality in SLE is premature coronary heart disease. Inflammation is considered to be the main pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and an important risk factor for vascular disease. Many clinical trials and studies of epidemiological and pathogenesis-related factors revealed that there is a common link between the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as SLE, causing inflammatory responses similar to those seen in atherosclerosis. In the following review article, we will describe how SLE, inflammation and its traditional risk factors, promotes atherosclerosis.