Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus, SLE)

Definition

Systemic lupus erythematosus (or lupus) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of joints, tendons, skin, and other connective tissue and organs. It causes the immune system to produce antibodies that attack the body's healthy cells and tissue.

Causes

The cause of lupus is unknown. Researchers believe it is caused by a combination of:

• Genetic factors
• Environmental factors, which may include:
  
  • Sunlight (UV rays)
  • Stress
• Viral or other type of infection
• Drug-induced (methyldopa, procainamide, hydralazine, isoniazid, chlorpromazine, TNF blocking drugs)

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Risk factors for lupus include:

• Sex: female to male ratio: 10:1
• Age: childbearing age (20-45 years)
• Race: African American, Native American, Asian, and Hispanic

Symptoms

The symptoms of lupus vary from mild to extremely severe and debilitating. In some patients, only part of the body (for example, the skin) is affected. In others, many parts of the body are affected. Though symptoms of lupus can be chronic, they usually flare up and subside intermittently.

Common symptoms include:

• Swollen and/or painful joints
• Fever
• Skin rashes over areas exposed to sunlight (especially on the nose and cheeks)
• Extreme fatigue

Other symptoms of lupus may include:

• Hair loss
• Chest pain, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
• Kidney inflammation
• High blood pressure
• Anemia or other blood disorders
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Ulcers in nose or mouth
• Swollen glands
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Stroke
• Inflammation of the heart, heart vessels, or membrane surrounding the heart
• Blood clots

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical and family history, and perform a physical exam. The diagnosis of lupus is usually made on the basis of symptoms, especially if they appear in young women. No single test can determine if you have lupus, but a number of blood tests for specific antibodies can help confirm a diagnosis of lupus.

Treatment

Treatment of lupus depends on your specific symptoms.

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing lupus because the cause is unknown.

To prevent flare-ups of symptoms:

• Develop a long-term relationship with your doctor and schedule regular check-ups.
• Treat any and all infections quickly and vigorously.
• Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Eat a healthful diet, one that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Limit emotional stress.
• Get adequate rest.
• Exercise moderately (as much as your condition allows) with your doctor's permission.
• Contact your doctor if you think a flare-up is imminent.
• Avoid oral contraceptives especially if you have ever had a blood clot.