Ethnic differences in pediatric SLE early disease severity: a comparison between Hispanic-Americans and European-Americans

Purpose Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with higher incidence and increased disease severity, including increased medication requirements and morbidity, in people not uniquely of European descent. Few studies explore the differences between ethnic groups at presentation and early in the disease process, and no studies exist to our knowledge specifically evaluating the pediatric Hispanic population. We hypothesize, based on clinical experience, that pediatric SLE patients of Hispanic descent have an earlier, more severe disease course compared to patients of European descent.