A distinct population of Low-Density Granulocytes with unique features associated with subclinical vascular alterations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
By
Tobío-Parada, Uxía
Rodríguez-Carrio, Javier
Martínez-Zapico, Aleida
Pérez-Álvarez, Angel I.
Suárez-Díaz, Silvia
Suárez, Ana
López, Patricia
May 5, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: A Unique Subset of Low-Density Granulocytes Linked to Subclinical Vascular Changes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Key Mechanisms Low-density granulocytes (LDGs) and their activation contribute to immune dysregulation and vascular inflammation. Target Population Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and non-autoimmune atherosclerotic individuals. Care Setting Clinical and research settings involving flow cytometry and ultrasonography.
Key Highlights
Identification of a distinct CD14⁺CD15⁺CD16⁺ myeloid subset in SLE patients. Correlation of nAPC-like granulocytes with Th1, Th17, and Treg cells. Increased nAPC-like granulocytes in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Association of nAPC-like with SLEDAI and anti-dsDNA titers. Expansion of an immature CD16dim_nAPC-like subset in SLE correlating with serum IL-6 and BLyS. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize flow cytometry to quantify myeloid cell populations in SLE patients. Management
Monitor levels of nAPC-like granulocytes in relation to cardiovascular health. Monitoring & Follow-up
Assess subclinical carotid arteriopathy using ultrasonography. Risks
Consider traditional cardiovascular risk factors in SLE patients. Patient & Prescribing Data
SLE patients and non-autoimmune atherosclerotic individuals.
Targeting immune dysregulation may mitigate vascular complications.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate assessment of LDG subsets in routine SLE evaluations. Evaluate cardiovascular health in SLE patients regularly. Related Resources & Content
