Systemic lupus erythematosus among Jordanians: a single rheumatology unit experience

ABSTRACT

To study the characteristics of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Jordan and compare results with other Arab countries in the region. This descriptive study was conducted on 50 Jordanian patients with Systemic Lupus Lrythematosus attending the rheumatology clinic at King Hussein Medical Center between 2000 and 2007. King Hussein Medical Centre is one of the main referral hospitals in Jordan. Data was collected from patients, relating to the various disease manifestations and mode of presentation, age at disease onset, disease duration, and family history of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Statistical analysis was performed using simple descriptive and bivariate statistics, such as mean, median, range and Chi square. Forty-four females and six male patients were included. Female to male ratio was 7.31 with median age of 22 years [range 14-48]. Mean disease duration was 43 months [range 12-90 months]. Clinical manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in descending order were, musculoskeletal [90%], cutaneous and oral ulcers [85%], renal complications [50%], neuropsychiatric [45%], haematological [40%], pulmonary complications [30%], and cardiac complications in 15% of cases. Secondary anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome [APS] occurred in 30% of cases. Three patients died from severe chest infection. Another patient died from massive sagittal sinus thrombosis and severe hydrocephalus. A comparison between our findings and published Systemic Lupus Erythematosus studies from four Arab countries revealed no significant clinical differences. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an important rheumatological disease with serious consequences including morbidity and mortality. It behaves in a similar way to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in other Arab countries. Renal, pulmonary and neurological complications are the main cause of morbidity. Chest infection is a major cause of mortality