Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Which organ is most commonly affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?

1. Liver

2. Pancreas

3. Lung

4. Kidney

The correct answer is: Kidney

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs in the body, but the kidneys are the most commonly involved organs. This condition leads to a specific form of kidney disease known as lupus nephritis, which is characterized by inflammation of the kidneys that can result in a range of issues, including proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and even progressive kidney dysfunction if left untreated. The renal involvement in SLE occurs because the immune system produces antibodies that target the body's own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage within the kidneys. This vulnerability significantly impacts the disease's management and prognosis, making renal assessment a key component in monitoring patients with SLE. Other organs can indeed be affected by SLE, including the skin, joints, lungs, and heart, but the kidneys are particularly notable due to the frequency of involvement and the potential for serious complications. Thus, the kidney stands out as the most commonly impacted organ in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.