Lymphadenopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus. Prevalence and relation to disease manifestations.

Lymphadenopathy (LAP) is a frequent sign in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Yet, data concerning its relation to the various disease manifestations are scarce or absent. LAP was present in 23/90 (26%) SLE patients. Patients with LAP had significantly more constitutional symptoms of fatigue, fever and weight loss, more cutaneous symptoms and signs, a higher rate of hepatomegaly and splenomegaly, increased anti-dsDNA antibodies and decreased complement levels. Disease activity index was higher among patients with LAP, as was the intake of steroids and antimalaria medications. There was no difference in renal or central nervous system (CNS) involvement between patients with LAP and those without LAP.