Systemic steroids at anti-inflammatory doses are usually sufficient to manage this disease. This is a multi systemic disease. Type II and III hypersensitivity are involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. Type II reactions are responsible for autoimmune hemolytic anemia and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia. Type III reactions are responsible for glomerulonephritis and vasculitis.
Clinical signs are variable.
Other syndromes that have been reported include polymyositis, myocarditis, peripheral lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. Dermatologic signs include seborrheic skin disease, panniculitis, nasal dermatitis, cutaneous and mucocutaneous vesicobullous disease, footpad ulcers and hyperkeratosis, vasculitis with ulceration and necrosis. CBC and Chemistry profile should also be done. Gold is not indicated in cases of lupus due to renal complications. Prognosis is guarded.