Articles related to LUPUS

Researchers discovered that inhibiting the activity of the fumarate hydratase enzyme in macrophages (a type of immune cell that plays a key role in inflammatory disorders) increased the cells’ production of interferon-beta. They also discovered that lupus patients’ macrophages have abnormally low levels of fumarate hydratase. These findings suggest that dysregulation of this enzyme may be a factor in the development of lupus, and that fumarate hydratase could be a potential therapeutic target.

On exam, this 19-year-old woman has malar rash characterized by pink-violet papules and plaques with no other physical finding. ANA is positive and urinalysis is remarkable for 3+ blood and protein. What test is the most appropriate next step?

Among more than 3,000 patients taking hydroxychloroquine, overall cumulative incidence for developing retinopathy were 2.5% and 8.6% at 10 and 15 years respectively. Incidence was strongly dose-related and most cases were mild.