Etiopathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus: A 2014 update

Systemic lupus erythematous is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the inflammation of several tissues and the production of auto-antibodies directed against nuclear antigens. Complex genetic disorders and environmental factors are at the origin of the disease but the precise cause of the autoimmune process is still unknown. Both innate and adaptive immune systems are involved. Apoptosis seems to be the main source of auto-antigens. The interactions between apoptotic cells, dendritic cells and lymphocytes activate the production of pathogenic antibodies and T lymphocytes. Amplification loops sustain the auto-immune process and the chronic inflammation. Several data point out B-lymphocytes and several cytokines involved in their homeostasis as new promising therapeutic targets. (C) 2013 Societe nationale francaise de medecine interne (SNFMI). Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.