Lupus erythematosus: A pediatric perspective.

Abstract

Lupus erythematosus (LE) is an autoimmune multisystem disorder with varied clinical manifestations. There are many similarities and differences between pediatric and adult disease in regard to epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects. In general, the disease in children has a more aggressive course and need for prolonged treatment is frequent, which implies a greater incidence of therapy‑related adverse effects. This review addresses various aspects of pediatric LE and how they differ from or are similar to adult disease.