Mannose binding lectin gene polymorphism and preclinical carotid atherosclerosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have increased risk of atherosclerosis and CVD that cannot be explained by traditional risk factors. Previous studies indicated that mannose binding lectin (MBL) may modify the development of atherosclerosis. This study was designed to investigate association of MBL gene polymorphism with occurrence of preclinical atherosclerosis in SLE.