Introduction
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic, life-long and potentially fatal autoimmune disease characterized by multiple system distress and unpredictable flares. High unmet need makes this an attractive market but dispute over patient numbers and clinical trial difficulties are significant hurdles for new entrants to overcome.

Scope
Assessment of patient size across the seven major markets (US, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK), including split by age and gender
Qualitative interviews with key opinion leaders including treating physicians, patient advocates and research scientists
Investigation of the current unmet needs from a range of professionals involved in SLE treatment and research
Current treatment controversies and novel therapies in the developmental pipeline
Highlights
The main obstacle to approval of a new treatment for SLE is ambiguity in the requirements for randomized clinical trials. Recruitment is becoming a particular issue as a large number of late-Phase trials are being carried out at present. Datamonitor recommends e-recruitment, patient advocacy group collaboration and liaison with regulatory agencies.

Awareness among primary care physicians is low, but once a treatment reaches the market, companies are expected implement large marketing initiatives. This will to improve physician knowledge of the condition and available treatments, aiding the challenge of correct diagnosis of this disease, and enlarging the market.

New drugs entering the market have a number of opportunities which can be exploited by the developing company. Orphan drug status is a key advantage of the SLE market. However, improved SLE survival rates have emphasized co-morbidities, resulting in the threat of an increased risk of thrombotic events.

Reasons to Purchase
Identify the challenges in clinical trial design including assessment tool selection and renal verses non-renal designs
Understand the key issues for potential treatments for heterogeneous SLE patients
Gain insight into opinion leaders' thoughts on the challenges facing the SLE market