Overlap syndromes

Overlap syndromes include persons with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who also have features of another rheumatologic condition, including rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, vasculitis, and/or myositis. In addition, there is a distinct overlap condition, mixed connective tissue disease, in which patients may or may not fulfill classification criteria for SLE and have additional distinct clinical features. Identifying patients with overlap syndromes is important, as these patients may require different monitoring and treatment regimes. This chapter will discuss the most common overlap syndromes found in SLE patients.