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Review
. 2021 Aug;47(3):501-511.
doi: 10.1016/j.rdc.2021.04.011. Epub 2021 Jun 10.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Classification and Diagnosis

Martin Aringer  1 , Sindhu R Johnson  2
Affiliations
Review

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Classification and Diagnosis

Martin Aringer et al. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2021 Aug.

Abstract

Since the European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology 2019 classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were published, they were externally validated by groups worldwide. In particular, the new criteria worked well also in East Asian and pediatric cohorts. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) as an entry criterion were critically discussed, but the group of ANA-negative patients is small (<5%) worldwide. Specificity of the criteria is dependent on correct attribution only of those criteria that are not better explained by other causes. Although the classification criteria should not be used for diagnosis, many novel aspects inform diagnostic considerations.

Keywords: Antinuclear antibodies; Classification criteria; Cutaneous lupus erythematosus; Neuropsychiatric SLE; Sensitivity; Specificity; Systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The development of the SLE criteria was jointly funded by EULAR and ACR. M. Aringer and S.R. Johnson have acted as co-chairs of the EULAR/ACR classification criteria steering committee. No other conflicts of interest apply to this article.

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