Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), often simply referred to as lupus, is a long-term autoimmune disease that may affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of SLE can vary greatly from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fevers. More severe symptoms can include seizures, psychosis, and inflammation of the heart or lungs.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genes have been linked to the disease, and triggers may include sunlight, certain medications, and viral infections.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of SLE is typically based on the presence of at least four out of eleven clinical criteria, including symptoms and laboratory results. These criteria include malar rash, discoid rash, photosensitivity, oral ulcers, arthritis, serositis, renal disorder, neurologic disorder, hematologic disorder, immunologic disorder, and antinuclear antibodies.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no cure for SLE, but treatments can help manage symptoms. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for people with SLE has improved in recent years due to better recognition and management of the disease. However, SLE can still be a challenging condition to live with and can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk of infections.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Lupus nephritis
- Discoid lupus erythematosus
- Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
- Neonatal lupus erythematosus
References[edit | edit source]
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Resources | ||
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