Lupus Erythematosus and Mortality

Mortality rates were studied in 9,547 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus at 23 international centers. In the study, the ratio of deaths observed to deaths expected was calculated for all deaths and also by cause of death. Results were reported in the August 2006 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism and confirm previous smaller studies. It was found that:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus patients have a higher rate of mortality than the general population.
• Higher risk was associated with female gender, younger age, shorter duration of having systemic lupus erythematosus, and African American race.
• The risk of death related to some lupus complications (i.e. renal disease) has decreased, while the risk of deaths from circulatory disease has not decreased.

Related Resources:

• Guide to Lupus
• Do I Have Lupus?
• Lupus Screening Quiz
• Fast Facts About Lupus
• Test Your Knowledge: Lupus
• 10 Things You Should Know About Lupus

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