What is systemic lupus erythematosus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus, or lupus as it is more commonly known, is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves the immune system. The immune system is supposed to protect the body against foreign agents such as bacteria or viruses, but in lupus the immune system becomes confused and turns against itself, attacking and destroying healthy tissue. Lupus can affect virtually any organ in the body, such as the kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, blood, skin, etc.
When only the skin is involved, the disease is called discoid lupus erythematosus. But when internal systems are involved the term systemic lupus erythematosus is used. In systemic lupus the skin may be involved, also.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms will vary depending on which organs are being targeted, but they can include joint pain and swelling, skin rash (often across the bridge of the nose and cheeks), muscle aches, fever, hair loss, photosensitivity, inflammation of the membranes around the heart or lungs, anemia or other blood abnormalities, weight loss, mouth or nasal ulcers, fatigue, and others.
Is lupus contagious?
Lupus is not contagious and it is not cancer. You cannot "catch" lupus, or give it to another person.
Is lupus inherited?
Lupus is not inherited, but it is believed that the tendency to develop lupus is inherited. However, although a person may have the genetic markers for lupus, he/she will not get lupus unless it is triggered by something. Some people, who have the genetic markers, will never develop lupus.
What triggers lupus?
Lupus triggers often involve tissue damage of some sort, such as sunburn, viral infections, surgery, auto accidents, pregnancy, exposures to toxic chemicals such as hair dyes, adverse reactions to certain drugs, and also stress, which is known to depress the immune system.
Who gets lupus?
Lupus affects people of all ages, races, socioeconomic groups, and both sexes. But 90% of lupus patients are women, with the usual age of onset being between the ages of 16 and 36.
Is lupus a terminal disease?
With treatment, ninety percent of lupus patients can expect to live a normal life span.
How is lupus treated?
Medications used to treat lupus often include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, to relieve the pain and stop the inflammation. In more serious cases the physician may prescribe corticosteroids to suppress more severe inflammation. In some patients the newer immunosuppressive agents may be required, especially if there is kidney or brain involvement. Each case of lupus has to be evaluated individually, and the treatment tailored for the specific requirements of the individual patient.
© 1997 L.E. Support Club
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