Long-Term Outcomes in SLE at Peking University People's Hospital

This single-center, prospective observational cohort study aims to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of patients diagnosed with SLE at Peking University People's Hospital. SLE is a chronic, heterogeneous autoimmune disease that can lead to cumulative organ damage, impaired quality of life, and premature mortality. Although disease control has improved with the advent of immunosuppressive therapies, predicting long-term outcomes remains a challenge.

The study will enroll adult SLE patients and follow them for a period of up to 10 years. Data will be collected at regular intervals, including clinical assessments, laboratory findings, treatment history, and patient-reported outcomes. A particular focus will be placed on measuring disease activity using validated indices such as the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and on evaluating the achievement and maintenance of Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS).

LLDAS is a validated treat-to-target goal associated with reduced damage accrual and improved prognosis. It will be assessed at each follow-up visit based on established criteria, including low disease activity (SLEDAI-2K ≤4 with no major organ activity), no new disease activity, low-dose glucocorticoid use (prednisone ≤7.5 mg/day or equivalent), and stable standard immunosuppressants. The frequency, duration, and determinants of achieving and sustaining LLDAS over time will be analyzed as a key outcome, alongside major organ involvement, flare rates, survival, and quality of life.

This study will provide real-world data on long-term disease trajectories in a Chinese tertiary hospital population and offer insights into predictors of favorable outcomes, guiding personalized disease management strategies and supporting the implementation of treat-to-target approaches in clinical practice.

Inclusion criteria

• All patients must meet at least one of the following classification criteria for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):

The 1997 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Revised Classification Criteria; The 2012 Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) Classification Criteria; The 2019 EULAR/ACR Classification Criteria for SLE. All patients must be over the age of 18 and competent to provide written consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients less than 18 years of age and patients who are unable to consent are excluded from the study.