In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, Dr. Cindy Aranow discusses the newly released American College of Rheumatology treatment guidelines for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She explains the importance of these guidelines in providing evidence-based recommendations for individualized patient care, the process of developing and updating the guidelines and key changes that emphasize optimal disease control and reducing long-term steroid use. Dr. Aranow highlights the need for patient engagement and communication with health care providers to ensure effective management of lupus.

This episode of The Expert Series was sponsored by AstraZeneca. The Lupus Foundation of America would like to thank AstraZeneca for their support of education programs for people with lupus.

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Episode Takeaways:

• Treatment guidelines are recommendations, not mandates, and support - not replace - your doctor’s clinical judgment.
• Lupus is a highly individualized disease, so care must be tailored to each person.
• A diverse group of experts develops and regularly updates guidelines based on new research.
• Guidelines help clinicians navigate complex and evolving medical evidence.
• Recent guidelines emphasize achieving remission or low disease activity while reducing long-term steroid use.
• Open communication and active patient involvement are essential for effective treatment decisions.

Related Resources:

• Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/care-support/ask-a-health-educator
• Find Support Near You (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/find-support-near-you
• National Resource Center on Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources
• The Expert Series (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-the-expert-series
• New Lupus Treatment Guidelines (ACR): https://rheumatology.org/press-releases/new-lupus-sle-clinical-practice-guidelines-released