Environmental influences on systemic lupus erythematosus expression

Abstract

The etiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is unknown, but multiple genetic, epigenetic, and environmental risk factors have been implicated. The inheritance of genes alone is not sufficient for developing SLE, suggesting the influence of environmental triggers on disease expression. Despite the tremendous amount of progress in elucidating potential environmental risk factors for SLE, much more needs to be done. An interdisciplinary approach to studies of the causes and, ultimately, prevention of SLE is needed. This article reviews what is understood about the epidemiology of the relationship between environmental exposures and SLE, in addition to emerging areas of study.

Keywords: Environment; Etiology; Risk factors; Systemic lupus erythematosus; Vitamin D.

Conflict of interest statement

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

The author declares that she has no conflict of interests or financial disclosures.

Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Figures

Figure 1

Interplay between environmental factors, genetics and epigenetics. SLE develops through multiple steps with the loss of self-tolerance and development of autoantibodies occurring sometimes several years prior to the onset of clinically symptomatic autoimmune disease.