ACR/EULAR SLE Classification Criteria:
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The ACR/EULAR (American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology) classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) provides a standardized method for classifying patients with this autoimmune disease. The criteria include various clinical and immunological domains with weighted scores.
The calculator sums points from various criteria:
Entry criterion: ANA titer ≥1:80 is required for classification
Classification threshold: Total score ≥10 points
Details: Accurate classification is crucial for clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and ensuring consistent diagnosis across different healthcare settings. The ACR/EULAR criteria provide improved sensitivity and specificity compared to previous classification systems.
Tips: Select appropriate options for each criterion. Note that ANA titer ≥1:80 is required as an entry criterion, and the total score must be ≥10 for SLE classification.
Q1: What is the purpose of these classification criteria?
A: The criteria help standardize patient classification for research studies and clinical trials, ensuring consistent inclusion criteria across different studies.
Q2: Are these criteria used for diagnosis?
A: While helpful, these are classification criteria, not diagnostic criteria. Clinical judgment remains essential for individual patient diagnosis.
Q3: Why is ANA ≥1:80 required?
A: This serves as an entry criterion because nearly all SLE patients have positive ANA, though positive ANA can occur in other conditions and healthy individuals.
Q4: What's the difference from previous criteria?
A: The 2019 ACR/EULAR criteria have improved sensitivity (93%) and specificity (93%) compared to previous criteria, with better performance across diverse populations.
Q5: Can this calculator replace clinical assessment?
A: No, this is a tool to assist with classification. Final diagnosis should be made by qualified healthcare professionals considering the full clinical picture.