Update: Heart Failure in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease that significantly increases cardiovascular risk. Although cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death in SLE patients, the correlation between SLE and heart failure (HF) remains unexplored. Myocardial dysfunction in SLE patients is frequently asymptomatic or nonspecific, which makes it difficult to identify HF using standard diagnostic techniques. In addition, there are serious difficulties in its early diagnosis. In this review, we summarize the latest reports on the epidemiology of heart failure in SLE patients. Current evidence on the impact of SLE treatment on the development of HF, as well as potential risk factors that increase the risk of HF, is presented. Potential methods of treatment and early detection of HF with special attention to potential biomarkers are also provided. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of the correlation between HF and SLE and to develop effective treatment strategies.