The Relationship of Serum Osteoprotegerin Level with Disease Severity in Iraqi Females with Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune condition that frequently presents with symptoms affecting the joints, such as inflammation, swelling due to fluid accumulation, or ongoing discomfort. A key diagnostic indicator of SLE is morning joint stiffness or pain, which typically persists for at least half an hour. Musculoskeletal complications, including arthritis and chronic joint pain, rank among the most common clinical manifestations of SLE, with studies indicating these symptoms are observed in nearly 90% of cases throughout the progression of the disease. The study aims to assess the relationship between the serum level of Osteoprotegerin (OPG) and the severity of SLE disease. Over four months, from November 2022 to March 2023, 131 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 50 healthy women participated in the case-control observational study. According to the Roma Helper program, a consultant physician conducted clinical examinations and divided the severity of the condition into patient groups (Intense, Mild, Moderate, and Dormant). Dormant SLE patients had greater OPG levels, although mild and moderate patients had higher OPG levels than the Dormant group. The Intense group had the highest OPG level of all the groups. Additionally, the group of healthy people had the lowest values. The levels of OPG were significantly increased in SLE patients, the OPG levels were of increased with disease activity.