Therapeutic Guidelines for Latin American Lupus Patients: Methodology

Abstract

Modern medicine is in a continuous state of flux given the relentless development of new evidence; thus, it is quite difficult for clinicians to remain abreast of all advances as they happen. Trustworthy clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) rigorously developed following a transparent methodology (http://www.gradeworkinggroup.org/) and including the best available evidence represent one of the best solutions to overcome these problems.1,2 Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex multisystemic autoimmune disease. Limited epidemiological data on lupus are available in Latin America. In 1 study conducted in Argentina, the estimated prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus was of 47 to 98 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.3 Because of the impact that ethnicity and poverty have on its presentation, activity, severity, and mortality,4 it is essential to develop guidelines for these patients.