Prevalence, Risk Factors, Clinical Features & Laboratory Profiles of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus at Adult Rheumatology Follow up Clinic of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-12-02
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple organ systems. It is more common in women of childbearing age and can be life threatening. Its cause is not known and is diagnosed using one of three criteria. However, there is a lack of information about the prevalence and characteristics of SLE in native Sub-Saharan Africans.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, risk factors, clinical features and laboratory profiles of systemic lupus erythematosus among adult patients who visited rheumatology clinic at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients aged 18 years or older who visited the adult rheumatology clinic of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in 2022. Data was extracted from the hospital's password-encrypted I-care system, then edited, cleaned, and compiled. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the study population, and associations between independent and dependent variables were expressed.
Results: Our study showed that 7.01% of 3650 patients had SLE. Male to female ratio was 1:16 & median age was 34.2 years. Cigarette smoking was a risk factor for SLE. Photo-sensitivity and cutaneous lupus were common. Comorbidities included cardiovascular diseases, lupus nephritis, neuro-psychiatric illnesses, pulmonary, ophthalmic, and gastrointestinal manifestations. ANA was positive in 98.8% of patients, and more than 95% were put on antimalarial agents and adjunct systemic corticosteroids.
Conclusion: The prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in our area is 7.01%. Primary care physicians must have a good knowledge of the symptoms of SLE for early diagnosis, management, and prevention of complications
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Prevalence, Adult, Rheumatology, Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia