Bone health in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) confront an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Traditional risk factors, such as smoking, advanced age, physical inactivity, and low weight, are partly responsible, but a number of lupus-specific risk factors may also play an important role. Chronic, systemic inflammation in patients with SLE has been proposed as a possible mechanism for osteoporosis development. Other potential risk factors include vitamin D deficiency due to sun avoidance, premature gonadal failure, and the chronic use of medications known to increase osteoporosis risk. Increased awareness of this potentially preventable condition is warranted, as early detection and treatment help optimize bone health and improve long-term outcomes in patients with SLE. This article presents recent epidemiologic data related to bone health in SLE and discusses preventative and therapeutic strategies.