NUR 265 Exam review 2021

18: ARTHRITIS AND COMMON TISSUE DISEASES LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS (DLE/SLE) PATHO  Lupus is probably caused by a complex combo of genetic and environmental factors  2 main classifications: o Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) – effects only the skin o Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) – more common  Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): o Chronic, progressive, inflammatory connective tissue disorder that can cause major body organs/systems to fail o Spontaneous remissions and exacerbations o Onset may be acute or insidious (slow) o Potentially fatal, but most live many years o Autoimmune process – invades organs or deprives them of blood and oxygen o Immune complexes invade organs directly or cause vasculitis (vessel inflammation), which deprives the organs of arterial blood and oxygen. o Autoimmune complexes tend to be attracted to glomeruli of the kidneys o Often some degree of kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) – this is the leading cause of death from this disease o Onset at 20-40 years old ASSESSMENT PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT  When in remission pt. may appear fully healthy  When disease flares up, pt. may need to be admitted to the hospital  MT skin condition daily and at every home visit 1 265 EXAM 4 CHART 18-11 KEY FEATURES