Study Finds Diagnostic Bias May Contribute to Misdiagnosis, Missed Diagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Among Men

Researchers identified potential causes delaying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis in men. The known epidemiology of lupus, predominantly affecting Black women, along with the use of sociodemographic characteristics as mental shortcuts by physicians during medical examinations, and the reliance on racial or sex-based archetypes for lupus diagnosis in clinical training may influence diagnosis. Delayed diagnosis can lead to worse outcomes and increased costs for people with the disease. 

In the qualitative study, 41 U.S. rheumatologists (49% of which had more than 10 years of post-fellowship experience) were interviewed about their diagnostic practices. The study participants were presented with experimental findings of a description-based study that showed SLE diagnosis may vary based on a patient’s race or sex. Researchers analyzed the responses of the participants who identified factors contributing to diagnostic delay and misdiagnosis of SLE, especially among White men. 

This study highlights the unique challenges to diagnosing SLE and the complex factors contributing to diagnostic bias and delays. Understanding how current medical training and examination systems could reinforce diagnostic bias in practice is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Learn more about the pathway to a medical diagnosis in lupus.

Read the study