SLE and the MD Soap Brain

The 1997 ACR criteria for SLE and its associated mnemonic MD soap brain remains a helpful tool to help you remember the different systemic manifestations of the disease. As always, ensure your patient is stable prior to your assessment. Patients with lupus flares can often be quite sick and may require immediate stabilization before further work up. On physical exam, it is often helpful to take a head-to-toe approach. Inspect for any alopecia, nasal or oral ulcerations,. Check for any rashes to sun-exposed areas of the body.