Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fatigue, joint pain, rash, fever
Complications	Kidney failure, heart disease, stroke
Onset	Usually between 15 and 45 years of age
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Autoimmune disease
Risks	Genetics, environmental factors, hormonal factors
Diagnosis	Blood tests, urinalysis, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	20 to 70 per 100,000 people
Deaths	N/A

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs. It is characterized by the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.

Signs and Symptoms

SLE presents with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary greatly among individuals. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Joint pain and swelling
• Skin rash, often in a "butterfly" pattern across the cheeks and nose
• Fever
• Hair loss
• Photosensitivity
• Raynaud's phenomenon

Causes

The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Certain genes may predispose individuals to the disease, and environmental triggers such as infections, sunlight, and stress may initiate its onset.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing SLE can be challenging due to its varied symptoms. A combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests is used to confirm the diagnosis. Key diagnostic tests include:

• Antinuclear antibody test (ANA)
• Anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) test
• Anti-Smith antibody test
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Urinalysis
• Kidney biopsy

Treatment

There is no cure for SLE, but treatment aims to manage symptoms and prevent organ damage. Common treatments include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Antimalarial drugs such as hydroxychloroquine
• Immunosuppressive drugs like azathioprine and cyclophosphamide

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with SLE varies. With early diagnosis and proper management, many people with SLE can lead active lives. However, the disease can be severe and life-threatening, particularly if it affects major organs such as the kidneys or heart.

Epidemiology

SLE is more common in women than men, with a female-to-male ratio of about 9:1. It is also more prevalent in certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians.

See Also

• Autoimmune disease
• Rheumatology
• Lupus nephritis

External Links

• Lupus Foundation of America
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases