The role of genetics and the environment in systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis: A review of the past decade

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in multiple body systems. Clinical manifestations are varied and can range from mild rashes to end-organ damage. The pathogenesis of SLE is complex and much is still unknown. Genetic factors are widely agreed to play a role, however known susceptibility genes only account for a percentage of SLE risk and heritability. Environmental factors, external exposures that can cause biological changes, can also interact with preexisting SLE genes, increasing disease risk.