EFFECTIVENESS OF CORTISONE USE ON SYSTEMATIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: This research aims to determine the Effectiveness of Cortisone Use on Systematic Lupus Erythematosus Patients.

Methods: The study will be conducted in multiple rheumatology clinics and hospitals across KSA, where SLE patients receive regular care. These facilities are selected to ensure a diverse and representative sample of SLE patients with varying treatment regimens.

Results: The study included 650 participants. The study included 650 participants. The most frequent gender among them was female (n= 380, 58.4%) and male (n= 270, 41.5%). Figure 1 shows the gender distribution among study participants. The most frequent age among study participants was less than 25 years (n= 207, 31.8%) followed by 25-30 years (n= 132, 20.3%), then 31-35 years (n=115, 17.7%), 36-40 years (n=109, 16.8%) and at least 40 years and more (n=87, 13.4%). Figure 2 shows the age distribution among study participants. The most frequent marital status among study participants was married (n= 233, 35.8%), followed by single (n= 179, 27.5%), then divorced (n=135, 20.8%), and widow (n=103, 15.8%).  Nationality among study participants, with most being Saudi (n= 608, 93.5%) and non-Saudi (n= 42, 6.4%).

Conclusion:

Based on the study results, it can be concluded that using cortisone for treating systemic lupus erythematosus patients demonstrates high effectiveness in reducing the frequency of symptoms, improving quality of life, and alleviating swelling and pain associated with the condition. However, specific side effects, such as weight gain and mood changes, were noted, emphasizing the need to educate patients about the risks and benefits of cortisone. The findings highlight the importance of offering alternative treatment options alongside cortisone to reduce dependency and minimize its side effects.