The New Classification Criteria of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The document from 2014 discussed the classification criteria for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a multi-system autoimmune disease. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) proposed classification criteria for SLE in 1982 for research purposes, which were updated in 1997 to recognize antiphospholipid antibodies. However, these criteria were not validated and did not meet the need for earlier diagnosis of SLE. To improve clinical relevance and incorporate new knowledge in lupus immunology, the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC), an international lupus expert group, revised the ACR systemic lupus classification criteria in 2012. The new 2012 SLICC criteria were validated using a large set of patient scenarios rated by experts.