1. What is SLEDAI?

The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) is a weighted index that measures disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus patients by summing scores from 24 clinical descriptors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SLEDAI equation:

Where:

• \( weight_i \) — Predefined weight for each descriptor (unitless)
• \( presence_i \) — Presence of descriptor (0 or 1, unitless)

Explanation: Each of the 24 clinical descriptors contributes to the total score based on its predefined weight if present.

3. Importance of SLEDAI Calculation

Details: SLEDAI provides a quantitative measure of disease activity in SLE patients, helping clinicians monitor disease progression and treatment response.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Check all descriptors that are present in the patient. The calculator will sum the weighted scores to provide the total SLEDAI score.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the range of SLEDAI scores?
A: SLEDAI scores range from 0 to 105, with higher scores indicating more severe disease activity.

Q2: How often should SLEDAI be calculated?
A: Typically assessed at each clinical visit to monitor disease activity and treatment response.

Q3: What descriptors are included in SLEDAI?
A: The index includes 24 clinical and laboratory descriptors such as seizure, psychosis, organic brain syndrome, and various other manifestations.

Q4: How does SLEDAI differ from other lupus activity indices?
A: SLEDAI is widely used for its simplicity and reliability in assessing global disease activity over the preceding 10 days.

Q5: Can SLEDAI be used for treatment decisions?
A: While SLEDAI helps assess disease activity, treatment decisions should consider multiple factors including patient symptoms and other clinical findings.