Short summary

Pulmonary diseases are of importance to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients. We will perform a study that consists of: • A systematic review of biomarkers and pulmonary diseases among patients with SLE. • A thorough evaluation of pulmonary diseases among SLE patients. An "out patient clinic" visit, including. - A clinical evaluation. - Autoantibody testing. - Thoracic ultrasound.

We hope to gain knowledge of pulmonary diseases among SLE patients, and introduce new diagnostic tools.

Rationale

Pulmonary diseases among patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) are common and associated to morbidity, mortality and lower quality of life. Because pulmonary diseases often are of an insidious nature, we believe, that they are often overlooked. Unfortunately, the existing knowledge are scarce compared to other manifestations of SLE.

The aim of the study is: - To gain a more detailed knowledge of pulmonary diseases among SLE patients - Introduce new diagnostic modalities

Description of the cohort

All adult patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, who: - Live in Region Southern Denmark - Fulfill the 2019 EULAR/ACR criteria - Speak and understand Danish

Data and biological material

Thoracic HRCT scan Lung function testing - Body plethysmography and six minutes walk test. Questionnaires - Danish version of SLAQ, Danish version of Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire. Blood samples. Thoracic ultrasound. Review of medical record. Focused clinical investigation, including SLE scores - SLEDAI 2K, SLICC, PGA. A biobank containing serum and plasma.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Respiratory Medicine, OUH Odense

• Jesper Davidsen, PhD, MD

Department of Radiology, OUH Odense

• Stefan Harders, PhD, MD

Department of Clinical Immunology, OUH Odense

• Christine Nilsson, MD