Biomarkers Associated with Organ-Specific Involvement in Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is characterised by onset before 18 years of age and more severe disease phenotype, increased morbidity and mortality compared to adult-onset SLE. Management strategies in JSLE rely heavily on evidence derived from adult-onset SLE studies; therefore, identifying biomarkers associated with the disease pathogenesis and reflecting particularities of JSLE clinical phenotype holds promise for better patient management and improved outcomes. This narrative review summarises the evidence related to various traditional and novel biomarkers that have shown a promising role in identifying and predicting specific organ involvement in JSLE and appraises the evidence regarding their clinical utility, focusing in particular on renal biomarkers, while also emphasising the research into cardiovascular, haematological, neurological, skin and joint disease-related JSLE biomarkers, as well as genetic biomarkers with potential clinical applications.

Automated summary

Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is a form of lupus that occurs before 18 years of age and is associated with more severe disease phenotype, increased morbidity, and mortality compared to adult-onset SLE. Identifying biomarkers specific to JSLE clinical phenotype can lead to better patient management and outcomes. Research into various traditional and novel biomarkers is important for predicting organ involvement and improving treatment strategies for JSLE.