Altered reproductive hormone profiles in systemic lupus erythematosus - A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Autoimmun RevJul 6, 2026 (epub)
Alexandru-Marian Constantin, Nora Mărginean, Ana-Maria Constantinescu et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined reproductive hormone levels in adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared to healthy controls. The analysis included 83 studies with 5,389 SLE patients. Prolactin levels were significantly higher in SLE patients (MD 8.07 ng/mL; p < 0.001), particularly during disease flares (MD 5.83 ng/mL; p < 0.001).
Key findings
- Prolactin was consistently higher in SLE patients compared to controls (MD 8.07 ng/mL; p < 0.001).
- Prolactin levels increased further during disease flares (MD 5.83 ng/mL; p < 0.001).
- DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in SLE patients (MD -1.00 μg/mL; p = 0.002).
- Estradiol was significantly higher in women with active SLE (MD 8.55 pg/mL; p = 0.03).
Why it matters
Understanding hormonal alterations in SLE can provide insights into the disease's pathogenesis and may influence management strategies. Elevated prolactin and altered androgen levels could have implications for treatment and monitoring of disease activity.