Systemic lupus erythematosus is commonly associated with early onset cardio
vascular disease and is often associated with hyperlipidaemia. This review
examines the evidence for an increased prevalence of both CHD and hyperlipi
daemia in SLE and mechanisms by which autoimmunity in SLE could accelerate
the progression of atheroma. It postulates how lipid lowering therapies use
d in cardiological disease might help reduce the incidence of CHD in SLE.