Serum Calprotectin in active Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multisystem autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies, immune complex formation, and widespread inflammation. Monitoring disease activity remains a clinical challenge due to its heterogeneous presentation and fluctuating course. Traditional biomarkers such as anti-dsDNA antibodies, complement levels (C3, C4), and ESR/CRP have limited sensitivity and specificity in all patients. This has led to increasing interest in novel inflammatory markers such as serum calprotectin. Calprotectin is a calcium- and zinc-binding protein complex released predominantly by neutrophils during inflammation. It plays a critical role in the innate immune response and serves as a sensitive biomarker of inflammatory activity.