systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a rare, chronic and potentially fatal autoimmune disease in which your dog's immune system fights itself by creating antibodies that "protect" it from its own cells and tissues. This leads to inflammation and tissue damage in the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, joints, nervous system or blood.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of SLE is not yet known, but it is a factor disease in which various triggers can lead to a clinically manifest disease, for example
- genetics
- infections
- UV radiation
- medication
Some breeds are more susceptible to developing SLE. They are mostly medium to large sized dogs, such as:
- Afghan Hound
- Beagle
- Collie
- German Shepherd
- Irish Setter
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Old English Sheepdog
- Poodle
- Shetland Sheepdog
The average age of onset is 5 years, but SLE has been reported in dogs as young as 6 months. In one study, male dogs were more commonly affected by SLE than female dogs.
Symptoms and signs
The symptoms of SLE can appear suddenly or gradually. They depend on which parts of the body the immune system is attacking. The signs of SLE can worsen or improve over time - your dog may get better, then worse, then better again. There may also be more signs as SLE progresses.
Typical symptoms include
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Lameness that moves from limb to limb
- Skin changes that may include redness, thinning, localized ulcers, loss of pigment and thinning or loss of coat
- fever
- Ulcers at the junctions between the skin and mucous membrane (e.g. on the lips)
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Enlarged spleen
- Enlarged liver
- Muscle pain
- Muscle atrophy
- Problems with the nervous system
Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis of SLE can be difficult and lengthy due to the sometimes non-specific symptoms. There is no single test that can clearly identify SLE, so other possible causes must be ruled out. These include
- Leishmaniasis
- Mucocutaneous pyoderma (skin infections)
- Epitheliotropic lymphoma (a form of skin cancer)
- Other autoimmune diseases
To diagnose SLE, your vet will perform a thorough clinical examination and order various tests, such as
- Blood count
- blood chemistry
- Urinalysis
- Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
- Rheumatoid factor test
- Biopsies of affected tissues
The treatment of SLE depends on which organ systems are affected. The main aim is to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone) or cytostatics (e.g. azathioprine) are usually used for this purpose. The dosage and duration of medication must be individually adjusted to minimize side effects and maintain quality of life.
In addition to drug therapy, other measures may also be necessary, such as
- Rest and limited activity if the joints are inflamed
- Protection from sunlight if the skin is sensitive
- An adapted, high-quality diet if the kidneys are impaired
- Painkillers, if necessary
Long-term prognosis and prevention
SLE is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. The prognosis depends on the severity and extent of organ damage. Some dogs can lead a relatively normal life with appropriate treatment, while others may develop serious complications that can lead to death.
Prevention of SLE is difficult as the exact cause is unknown. It is recommended not to breed dogs with SLE or a family history of SLE to reduce the risk of inheritance. You should also have your dog examined regularly and look out for possible signs of SLE. If you notice a change in your dog's behavior or appearance, you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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