Meta-analysis of factors for osteonecrosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: integration of comprehensive literatures and multicenter databases - Report - MDSpire

Meta-analysis of factors for osteonecrosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: integration of comprehensive literatures and multicenter databases

  • By

  • Rui-Cen Li

  • Lin-Chong Su

  • An-Fang Huang

  • Wang-Dong Xu

  • Xiao-Yan Liu

  • July 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Osteonecrosis in SLE

Overview

This meta-analysis identifies 32 factors associated with osteonecrosis (ON) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), highlighting both clinical and laboratory features. The use of cyclophosphamide and steroid pulse therapy was positively correlated with SLE-ON risk.

Background

Osteonecrosis is a significant complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, leading to severe disability and poor prognosis. The prevalence of ON in SLE patients ranges from 3% to 44%.

Data Highlights

FactorOdds Ratio (OR)
Neuropsychiatric lupus1.652
Hyperlipidemia1.358
Oral ulcers1.319
Pleuritis2.225
Malar rash1.311
Vasculitis2.638
Serositis1.514
Proteinuria1.635
Antiphospholipid antibody1.450
Anti-SSA antibody0.805
Cyclophosphamide usage1.869
Steroid pulse therapy1.829

Key Findings

  • A total of 32 factors were identified as related to SLE-ON.
  • Clinical features such as vasculitis and pleuritis were positively associated with SLE-ON risk.
  • Laboratory features including proteinuria and elevated ESR were also linked to increased SLE-ON risk.
  • Anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies showed a negative correlation with SLE-ON susceptibility.
  • Younger age was significantly related to the development of SLE-ON.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider monitoring and intervening on modifiable risk factors associated with SLE-ON, particularly in patients receiving cyclophosphamide and steroid therapies. Early screening for osteoporosis may also be beneficial in this population.

Conclusion

The findings from this meta-analysis provide a comprehensive overview of factors associated with osteonecrosis in SLE.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- From empirical treatment to precision intervention: a multi-database bibliometric analysis of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (2006–2025)
  2. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Comparative effectiveness and safety of biologics and targeted small-molecule therapies plus stable background therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
  3. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Global perspectives on lupus nephritis: a review of clinical trials and therapeutic innovations
  4. Frontiers | Risk factors of osteonecrosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis
  5. American College of Rheumatology, 2025 -- Current guideline posture on SLE management
  6. Drug Safety — Evaluating Cardiovascular Safety of Romosozumab in Comparison to Standard Anti-Osteoporosis Treatments for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Comprehensive Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
  7. https://rheumatology.org/api/asset/bltec93920aad624e33
  8. Frontiers | Risk factors of osteonecrosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis
  9. Frontiers | Meta-analysis of factors for osteonecrosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: integration of comprehensive literatures and multicenter databases

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