Lupus

Lupus (Systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues - including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. Lupus can affect almost any part of the body, making it one of the most complex autoimmune diseases. SLE causes inflammation, pain, and damage. It comes in flares (active periods) and remission (quiet periods), and no two cases are exactly alike.

Fatigue (very common and often severe); Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling; Butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose; Photosensitivity (rash or flares triggered by sunlight); Hair loss; Mouth or nose ulcers; Low-grade fever; Chest pain (when breathing deeply); Raynaud's phenomenon (cold fingers/toes that turn white or blue); Kidney issues (protein in urine, swelling in legs); Headaches, brain fog, or seizures. Symptoms can vary widely and mimic other diseases.

Exact cause is unknown but believed to be triggered by a combination of genetics (family history increases risk), hormones (more common in women, especially during childbearing years), environmental triggers (infections like Epstein-Barr, UV light, certain medications), and immune system malfunction.

No single test for lupus. Diagnosis is based on: Physical exam and symptom history; Blood tests: ANA (present in most lupus patients), Anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies (more specific to lupus), Low C3/C4 complement levels (suggest disease activity); Urinalysis (to check kidney involvement); Imaging (for lung or heart inflammation). Must meet clinical and immunologic criteria.

No cure, but treatment can reduce symptoms and prevent damage: NSAIDs (for pain and inflammation); Antimalarials like hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil); Corticosteroids (for flares or serious organ involvement); Immunosuppressants (azathioprine, methotrexate, mycophenolate); Biologics (e.g., belimumab, rituximab); Lifestyle changes: stress management, sun protection, and balanced diet.

With proper treatment, most people live long, active lives. Disease severity varies - some have mild skin/joint symptoms, others face serious organ damage. Early diagnosis and care can dramatically improve outcomes. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor flares and prevent complications.

Affects 1.5 million people in the U.S., mostly women aged 15-45. 9 out of 10 cases occur in women. More common in Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American populations. Can range from mild to life-threatening.