Which organ systems can be affected by systemic lupus erythematosus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organ systems in the body. The nature of SLE is such that it is systemic, meaning it can impact various tissues and organs. The correct choice emphasizes that SLE can indeed involve multiple organ systems including the skin, which commonly exhibits rashes and lesions; the joints, often resulting in arthritis and inflammation; and the heart, which can be affected by conditions such as pericarditis or endocarditis.

This characteristic of SLE being systemic is crucial for both diagnosis and management, as clinicians need to consider a broad range of symptoms and organ systems when evaluating a patient. The systemic involvement of SLE often necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, targeting different manifestations across various organ systems, thus influencing strategies for clinical management.

While the other options mention specific organ systems, they do not capture the full spectrum of SLE's impact. Ranging from renal impairment, hematological abnormalities, and pulmonary issues, to neurological manifestations, SLE indeed has the potential to affect nearly any part of the body. This broad systemic involvement is a hallmark of the disease that is essential for understanding its complexity.