| Name of Studies: | Premature Atherosclerosis in SLE Patients: Early Detection by Electron Beam Computerized Tomography (EBCT) The Contribution of Genetic Polymorphisms Affecting Folate/Homocysteine Metabolism to the Risk of Premature ASCVD in SLE |
| Principal Investigator: | Joan M. Von Feldt, M.D. Associate Professor of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Division of Rheumatology |
| Start Date: | 2001 |
| Sponsor: | Lupus Foundation Lupus Research Institute |
| Coordinator: | Kristen Murphy kristen.murphy@uphs.upenn.edu 215-615-3047 (phone) 215-614-0792 (fax) |
| Number of Patients Enrolling: | 200 Participants with Lupus 200 Control Participants without Lupus |
| Still Enrolling: | Yes |
| Purpose: | Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at a 30 to 50% increased risk of heart disease. These studies are designed to learn more about detecting early heart disease in lupus patients and the genetic basis for this increased risk of heart disease in lupus patients. |
| Description of Study: | Participants are seen at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania for approximately one hour. At this time, blood and urine samples are obtained, and an EKG is conducted. Participants complete several questionnaires about medical history. A urine pregnancy test is conducted. Participants proceed to Presbyterian Hospital where an EBCT heart scan is performed. The scan is non-invasive and takes about 10-15 minutes. All procedures related to the study are provided free of charge. Participants are reimbursed $35.00 for transportation costs. |
| Key Words: | Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Heart Disease EBCT MTHFR Gene |
| Inclusion Criteria: | Between the Ages of 25 and 65 Meet Criteria for American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Diagnosis for SLE |
| Exclusion Criteria: | Pregnant Diagnosis of Other Inflammatory Rheumatological Condition |
