Establishment of a hospital-based systemic lupus erythematosus registry: Initial experience from a tertiary care center

Abstract

Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease with heterogeneous clinical manifestations. Regional prospective registry data remain limited, particularly regarding early organ involvement and antiphospholipid antibody (APLA) prevalence.

Objective: To establish a hospital-based SLE registry and describe the clinical characteristics and early outcomes of the first four enrolled patients.

Methods: A prospective observational registry was initiated at our tertiary care hospital. Patients diagnosed with SLE were enrolled. Demographic, clinical features, immunological status , organ involvement, treatment, and early follow-up data were recorded.

Results: Four female patients (mean age 22.75 years) were enrolled. Two were newly diagnosed, and two had established disease. Three patients were positive for antiphospholipid antibodies. Clinical manifestations included musculoskeletal, cutaneous, neurological, vascular thrombosis, and renal involvement with nephrotic syndrome. Early steroid tapering was achievable in mild presentations. Two patients required anticoagulation. One patient with renal involvement is under follow-up post-discharge.

Conclusion: The establishment of an SLE registry in our institution is feasible and highlights varied early disease patterns, including significant thrombotic and renal involvement. Continued enrollment and long-term follow-up will enhance understanding of disease outcomes in our population.