Abstract
A group of leading rheumatologists from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries has prepared clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of systemic lupus erythematosus. These clinical guidelines are based on the recommendations of the national rheumatology associations of the CIS countries, the international guidelines of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology, and the American College of Rheumatology. These guidelines are intended for a wide range of specialists in the CIS countries, including rheumatologists and general practitioners.