disease activity indices (e.g., SLEDAI)

Disease activity indices, like the SLEDAI (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index), are tools doctors use to measure how active and severe a disease is at a particular time. They assign scores based on specific symptoms, lab results, and signs of organ involvement. For example, they count symptoms like joint pain or rash, or test results indicating inflammation. Higher scores mean more active disease, helping healthcare providers decide on the best treatment approach. These indices enable consistent monitoring of the disease over time, ensuring that management is tailored to the disease's current activity level.