Which autoimmune disease commonly affects multiple organ systems and is abbreviated as SLE?

• A. Rheumatoid arthritis
• B. Multiple sclerosis
• C. Systemic lupus erythematosus
• D. Psoriasis

Answer: (C)

This question tests the idea that some autoimmune diseases are systemic, meaning they can involve many different organs, not just one tissue. Systemic lupus erythematosus is the disease that fits this pattern. It involves a range of autoantibody–mediated and immune complex–driven processes that can affect skin (like malar rash and photosensitivity), joints (arthritis), kidneys (lupus nephritis), heart, lungs, nervous system, and blood cells. The name itself—systemic lupus erythematosus—describes its widespread nature, making it the disease that commonly affects multiple organ systems.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis mostly targets joints; multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system; psoriasis mainly involves the skin (though it can have joint involvement in some cases).