Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Revisited: A Milestones in Classification, Mechanistic Insights on Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Evolving Treatment Paradigms

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | 03 | Page :
By

Anjali Nayak,

Impana GM,

V kavya,

  1. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  3. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic, multi-systemic chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder characterized by extreme clinical heterogeneity and the potential to involve virtually any organ or tissue. The condition is driven by a fundamental breakdown in immune tolerance, resulting in the overproduction of pathogenic autoantibodies and the formation of immune complexes that precipitate widespread inflammation and organ damage. This review aims to provide an exhaustive synthesis of recent developments in the understanding of SLE, focusing on the milestone updates of 2019 and subsequent years. Key areas covered include the historical evolution of the disease from ancient descriptions to modern murine models, the epidemiological disparities affecting women and specific ethnic groups, and the intricate etiology involving genetic susceptibility, epigenetic modifications, and environmental triggers such as Epstein-Barr virus and ultraviolet B radiation. Furthermore, the review delineates the diagnostic transition from the 1997 ACR criteria to the 2019 score-based EULAR/ACR classification, alongside an in-depth analysis of pharmacological advances specifically the emergence of biologics like belimumab and anifrolumab and the integration of holistic management strategies. In conclusion, while survival rates have improved dramatically, achieving remission and addressing non-inflammatory symptoms remain the primary challenges in the pursuit of personalized precision medicine for SLE patients.

Keywords: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Autoimmunity, Immune Tolerance Breakdown, EULAR/ACR 2019 Classification, Biologic Therapies.

How to cite this article: Anjali Nayak, Impana GM, V kavya. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Revisited: A Milestones in Classification, Mechanistic Insights on Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Evolving Treatment Paradigms. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmacology. 2026; 16(03):-.
How to cite this URL: Anjali Nayak, Impana GM, V kavya. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Revisited: A Milestones in Classification, Mechanistic Insights on Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Evolving Treatment Paradigms. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmacology. 2026; 16(03):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjop/article=2026/view=255652

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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 16
03
Received 13/07/2026
Accepted 08/09/2026
Published 14/09/2026
Publication Time 63 Days


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