The following is a summary of the salient features of the diseases discussed above and how these features are important in our therapeutic decisions.
       Summary of major points in Systemic lupus erythematosus: The hallmark of SLE is the presence of autoantibodies. Antinuclear antibodies are present in almost all individuals. It will be very difficult for a physician to make a diagnosis in a patient when the patient does not have this antibody even on multiple testing. The disease is immune mediated. Treatment in life threatening situations require corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapies.
       Summary of major points in Rheumatoid arthritis: The hallmark of RA is a symmetrical polyarthritis involving especially the small joints of the hands and feet. It will be very difficult for a physician to make a diagnosis in a patient if the patient has only an oligoarthritis. The arthritis is frequently erosive. In such cases, treatment by disease remitting agents will be required.
       Summary of major points in Ankylosing spondylitis: and related arthritis conditions This type of arthritis focus on the enthesis. Many patients are HLA-B27 positive. In most cases, treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is sufficient.