Learning objectives and clinical implications
- Enable students to recognize the early clinical features of pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus and distinguish them from common infections and other autoimmune conditions in children to prevent delayed diagnosis.
- Help learners understand the immunopathogenesis of SLE, including the roles of autoantibodies, immune complex deposition, and complement activation in causing tissue and organ damage.
- Train students to apply current classification criteria appropriately in pediatric patients while appreciating age-specific differences in presentation.
- Improve the ability to interpret key laboratory investigations such as ANA, anti-dsDNA antibodies, complement levels, and urinalysis in assessing disease activity and organ involvement.
- Strengthen skills in identifying major organ system manifestations including renal, neuropsychiatric, hematologic, cutaneous, and musculoskeletal involvement and in initiating timely multidisciplinary care.
- Promote understanding of treatment principles in pediatric SLE, including the use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, biologics, and supportive therapies, with an emphasis on minimizing long-term toxicity.
- Enhance recognition of disease flares and complications at an early stage to reduce morbidity and prevent irreversible organ damage.
- Encourage awareness of psychosocial issues such as adherence, growth, puberty, fertility counseling, and transition of care from pediatric to adult rheumatology services.