Answer :

In later stages of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), patients may develop boutonniere deformities due to joint damage caused by chronic inflammation. This deformity is characterized by the middle joint of the finger bending downward and the outermost joint bending upward. The disease's progression and severity vary among individuals.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. Because of the wide variety of cells targeted by autoantibodies in SLE, symptoms can appear in many parts of the body. Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, hair loss, and a sunlight-sensitive "butterfly" rash on the face. The joints are often affected, leading to arthritis in the fingers, hands, wrists, and knees.

In advanced stages of SLE, joint damage can lead to deformities. One such deformity is the boutonniere deformity, which is characterized by the middle joint of a finger being bent downward and the outermost joint being bent upward. This occurs due to chronic inflammation of the joint tissues causing a tear in the extensor tendon mechanism. Thus, a patient with SLE may indeed develop boutonniere deformities in later stages due to persistent joint inflammation and damage.

Thanks for taking the time to read What is the likelihood that a patient with SLE will develop boutonniere deformities in later stages. We hope the insights shared have been valuable and enhanced your understanding of the topic. Don�t hesitate to browse our website for more informative and engaging content!

Rewritten by : Barada