A 45-year-old woman presents with photosensitive malar rash, arthralgias, and fatigue. ANA is strongly positive, and anti-dsDNA is elevated. Creatinin...

Question

A 45-year-old woman presents with photosensitive malar rash, arthralgias, and fatigue. ANA is strongly positive, and anti-dsDNA is elevated. Creatinine is normal and there is no proteinuria. According to SLE management principles in Canada, what is the recommended baseline therapy for most patients with systemic lupus erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Hydroxychloroquine for all patients unless contraindicated

Answer

No pharmacologic treatment if renal function is normal

Answer

Long-term high-dose systemic corticosteroids alone

Answer

Cyclophosphamide immediately for all patients

Answer

Methotrexate monotherapy for skin disease only

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Systemic lupus erythematosus - baseline therapy