Which is NOT a characteristic of SLE?

The characteristic that is not associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is that it affects only men. SLE is a complex autoimmune disease that primarily impacts women, particularly those of childbearing age. Statistically, approximately 90% of individuals diagnosed with SLE are women, indicating a significant gender disparity in its prevalence.

This condition is marked by a diverse range of symptoms, which can include joint pain, skin rashes, and organ involvement such as kidney complications, further emphasizing its broad and systemic nature. Therefore, identifying that the disease primarily affects women underscores the inaccurate notion of it only affecting men. The prevalence in women is thought to be influenced by hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors. Understanding this characteristic aids in recognizing the demographic most at risk for the disease and facilitates appropriate screening and diagnosis practices.