A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may be at increased risk for osteoporosis.
Patient selection: SLE
Risk factors for osteoporosis:
(1) longer duration of SLE
(2) greater SLE disease activity with inflammation
(3) postmenopausal status in females
(4) prolonged therapy with corticosteroids
(5) lupus nephritis
(6) vitamin D deficiency
(7) low sunlight exposure (due to photosensitivity)
(8) low body weight
Complications:
(1) fragility fractures
Differential diagnosis:
(1) avascular osteonecrosis
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic, Immunology/Rheumatology