Lupus Diagnosis Can Be an Exercise in Suspicion

"The outcome of most kids with lupus is certainly not what it used to be," he said. "More than 90% of our kids do very well and have long-term survival."

In fact, "now that we are saving these kids, we have to worry about the side effects of treatment." Hence, where possible, treatment strategies have been modified to reduce long-term toxicity.

Importantly, he concluded, as children with lupus increasingly survive into adulthood, their providers will need to be aware of risks related to the disease and its treatment that may emerge over time, including hyperlipidemia, heart attack, and complicated pregnancy.

Dr. Sherry reported that he had no conflicts of interest in association with his presentation.

The spotty malar rash associated with lupus can mimic rosacea.

This lupus patient's rash is largely confined to the nose.

Children with lupus may have a vasculitic rash on their hands.

A painless oral ulcer of the hard palate can be easily overlooked.

Source Photos courtesy Dr. David Sherry