Behavior of systemic lupus erythematosus in pediatric age in Villa Clara

Abstract

A retrospective study was conducted during the period from January 1995 and December 2010 with the aim of making known epidemiological aspects of systemic lupus erythematosus, a disease of autoimmune pathogenesis and genetic basis with chronic evolution. Most patients are diagnosed in prepubertal and pubertal ages. Children frequently present a severe multisystem involvement. Thirty-five children were studied at the José Luis Miranda Pediatric Hospital. Their medical records were reviewed and a survey was applied. The most common age group was from nine to 11 years, there was female predominance (88.57%) and white skin prevailed. An 88.57% had malar rash. Articular manifestations were observed in 80% of patients and 77.14% had fever and oral ulcers. Renal involvement was noted in 65.71% and 37.14% had blood disorders. Serositis was observed in 40% of cases. Antinuclear antibodies were positive in 62.86% and decreased complementemia was found in 71.43%. Renal biopsies were performed in seven patients. All patients were treated with corticosteroids and the immunosuppressive drugs most commonly used were cyclophosphamide and azathioprine. A multidisciplinary team evaluated the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for better prognosis.