Lupus nephritis linked with higher infection-related hospitalization in young adults with SLE

Amongst 18-24 years with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus nephritis and pleuritis are associated with higher serious infection-related hospitalization (SIH), according to a study.

The care of young adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (YA-SLE) is challenging due to major life transitions and chronic healthcare needs, and studies have shown poorer outcomes in the post-transition period.

The current study analyzed outcomes of sepsis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin, and soft tissue infections in 1,720,883 hospital admissions of patients aged ≥18 years with SLE.

The rates of infection in young adults with SLE and adults with SLE were 15% and 14.5%, respectively, however, the rate of infection amongst young adults with no SLE was only 4.2%.

Sepsis and then pneumonia were the most common diagnosis in patients with SLE with SIH.

Non-white patients, those in the lowest income quartile, and those with Medicaid had higher rates of severe infections. Comorbidities like lupus nephritis and pleuritis were also associated with severe infections in young adults with lupus. The rates of severe infections, particularly sepsis, increased over time.

Reference
Dhital R, Guma M, Poudel DR, et al. Infection-related hospitalisation in young adults with systemic lupus erythematosus: data from the National Inpatient Sample. Lupus Sci Med. 2023;10(1):e000851. doi: 10.1136/lupus-2022-000851. PMID: 37019477; PMCID: PMC10083864.