The Gastrointestinal Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Survey of the Literature

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease associated with auto-antibody production and resulting widespread inflammation that has potential to affect and damage many organ systems. Gastrointestinal manifestations of SLE are well documented in the literature but the exact extent and frequency of their presence is likely grossly underestimated. Patients present with vague complaints such as abdominal pain and nausea with non-specific physical exam findings and inconclusive diagnostic tests and serologic analysis. Recent research has helped to better clarify these manifestations of SLE and has demonstrated distinct involvement of almost every portion of the GI tract. This article is based upon an exhaustive review of the literature from 1976 to present date and summarizes the major advances in the identification and differentiation of gastrointestinal incarnations related to systemic lupus erythematosus. The review also encompasses theories of etiology of the various manifestations, summarizes accepted and experimental treatment regimens, and highlights the differential diagnosis of each presented topic, including disorders of the oropharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, liver and gallbladder and beyond.