Mortality in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: an Updated Review

Both systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its treatments can contribute to increased mortality rates. The focus of this review is recent studies on mortality and comorbidities during the last 5 years from around the world. The authors conducted a literature review, using PUBMED, for articles relating to SLE mortality with a specific focus on literature published within the last 5 years. Our analysis found that while mortality in SLE patients continues to improve, there are differences in survival based on ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, and gender. The most common cause of mortality is cardiovascular disease, followed closely by infection and severe disease activity. To conclude, while there have been significant advances in the treatment of SLE and its associated comorbidities, increased mortality remains a major concern in patient management.