ABSTRACT
Lupus nephritis [LN] is one of the most severe complications of SLE. SLE patients have a greater risk of developing premature atherosclerosis. Resistin is an adipocyte-secreted peptide. It has pro-inflammatory and atherogenic effects. To assess the serum levels of resistin in SLE patients and to evaluate it as a marker of nephritis and premature atherosclerosis. This study included 50 SLE nonpregnant female adult [mean age 23.1 +/- 6.9 years] patients as well as 40 healthy volunteers matched in age and sex as a control group. Serum levels of resistin were assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]. All patients and controls underwent laboratory investigations and carotid duplex. Disease activity was assessed using SLE Disease Activity Index [SLEDAI]. Renal biopsy was performed for SLE patients with LN. There was a highly statistically significant increase in mean serum resistin levels [14.1 +/- 3.88 ng/ml] in patients versus the control group [6.44 +/- 1.34 ng/ml] being more obvious in those with LN. Resistin had a significant positive correlation with markers of inflammation, SLEDAI and carotid intima media thickness [CIMT]. Serum level of resistin may serve as a marker of LN and atherosclerosis in SLE patients. A more aggressive control of the underlying inflammatory process along with the control of traditional risk factors [hypertension and cholesterol] may be beneficial in reducing the risk factors of renal and atherosclerotic involvement in SLE. Therapeutic approaches with drugs that target resistin might be useful in the treatment of SLE