Lupus: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Epidemiology of Lupus in Latin America

Scolnik M, Soriano ER

Epidemiology studies on Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are scarce in Latin America. A comprehensive search on MEDLINE and LILACS databases for relevant articles using the combination search terms of lupus and epidemiology was performed and herewith we provide a short review of the published data found. Twelve studies were identified regarding incidence or prevalence of SLE in Latin America. Incidence varied from 4.7 to 8.7/per/ 100000 person’s years, and prevalence ranged from 47.6 to 90 per 100000 habitants. There were important variations in the epidemiology of lupus in Latin America. These variabilities could be explained by genetic or environmental differences, differences on the methodology used, and/or in the quality of the studies. Latin America is heterogeneous and more regional studies are needed.