Musculoskeletal manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease affecting nearly every organ system in the body. The musculoskeletal (MSK) system is frequently affected and often the earliest site of disease presentation. Tendon, tendon sheath, bone, muscle, and soft tissue involvement is assessed through a multimodality approach. Radiology has an evolving role in the diagnosis and management of SLE. In this article, the authors discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and typical imaging findings, as well as review the role of imaging in the management of SLE.