The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has released its first comprehensive update to the clinical practice guidelines for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) since 1999, a major milestone in the evolution of lupus care. These new guidelines reflect the latest evidence and expert consensus on managing lupus, with a strong emphasis on disease monitoring, minimizing treatment-related toxicity, and advancing precision medicine.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex autoimmune disease that affects multiple organ systems and requires ongoing, individualized care. The updated guidelines recommend universal use of hydroxychloroquine, minimizing glucocorticoid exposure, and earlier introduction of immunosuppressive therapies. They also underscore the importance of regular disease activity and damage assessments to guide treatment decisions and prevent complications.

This renewed focus on disease monitoring presents an opportunity to highlight the critical role of laboratory testing in lupus care. Routine lab tests help clinicians track disease activity, assess organ involvement, and monitor side effects of medication. This enables timely adjustments to therapy and supports shared decision-making between patients and providers.

"These new guidelines provide an evidence-based roadmap where careful monitoring and rational therapy can enhance and improve the patient journey.”

Bernard Rubin, D.O., M.P.H., chief medical officer of Progentec

To expand diagnostic options for patients with SLE, Mayo Clinic Laboratories collaborates with Progentec Diagnostics to offer several biomarker blood tests that help manage active disease and anticipate the onset of symptoms.

The guidelines also acknowledge the challenges of implementing standardized disease activity tools in everyday practice, such as the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), and encourage the use of physician assessments and patient-reported outcomes. These tools, combined with lab data, provide a more complete picture of a patient’s disease status and help clinicians tailor treatment to each individual.

“Testing is not just about making a diagnosis. It is an essential part of guiding patient care throughout the course of disease. Regular and accurate monitoring allows us to see how a condition is evolving and how patients are responding to treatment, which helps us make timely adjustments and improve outcomes.”

William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., president and CEO of Mayo Clinic Laboratories

As lupus care continues to evolve, laboratory testing remains a cornerstone of effective disease management. Learn more about how Mayo Clinic Laboratories supports lupus diagnostics and monitoring.