Features of late-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease, characterized by multiorgan involvement, most commonly targeting the skin, joints and kidneys. Late-onset disease occurs in patients over the age of 50 and represents a diagnostic challenge, as it is less frequently encountered and it may exhibit a more unusual clinical and paraclinical picture. The aim of this paper is to highlight two cases of SLE diagnosed in female patients of considerably advanced ages, 81 and 72 years respectively, in order to enhance physician awareness with regard to this distinct disease subtype.

Keywords

• systemic lupus erythematosus
• late-onset
• elderly onset
• serositis
• arthritis