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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Moderate
Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly called lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. It can cause inflammation and damage in many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and nervous system. Symptoms and severity vary considerably among individuals.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, sudden neurological symptoms, seizures, confusion, severe swelling, markedly reduced urine output, or other rapidly worsening symptoms that could indicate serious organ involvement.
Symptoms
4
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly called lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. It can cause inflammation and damage in many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and nervous system. Symptoms and severity vary considerably among individuals.
Symptoms 4
Blisters
Itching
Red Eyes
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Causes 2
The exact cause of systemic lupus erythematosus is unknown. It is believed to result from interactions among genetic susceptibility, immune-system abnormalities, hormones, and environmental triggers. Factors such as sunlight exposure, certain infections, medications, and other environmental influences may contribute to disease activity in susceptible individuals.
Autoimmune Disorder
Genetics
Risk Factors
Risk factors for systemic lupus erythematosus include genetic susceptibility, female sex, certain family histories, exposure to ultraviolet light, smoking, some infections, and particular medications. The disease is more common in women of childbearing age, although lupus can occur in people of any age or sex.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is diagnosed using a combination of symptoms, physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. Blood tests may include antinuclear antibody testing and other tests for immune-system activity. Urine and kidney tests may be used to look for organ involvement. No single test can establish lupus in every person, so clinicians consider the overall pattern of findings.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Systemic lupus erythematosus cannot currently be prevented in every person
People with lupus can reduce disease flares by following prescribed treatment, protecting the skin from excessive ultraviolet exposure, avoiding smoking, maintaining regular medical follow-up, and learning to recognize symptoms that may indicate increased disease activity
Prevention Guidance
Systemic lupus erythematosus cannot currently be prevented in every person. People with lupus can reduce disease flares by following prescribed treatment, protecting the skin from excessive ultraviolet exposure, avoiding smoking, maintaining regular medical follow-up, and learning to recognize symptoms that may indicate increased disease activity.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Omega-3 rich fish
May help reduce inflammation
Fresh fruits
Provide antioxidants
Leafy green vegetables
Support immune and overall health
Foods to Avoid
Highly processed foods
May promote inflammation
Excess salt
May worsen blood pressure and kidney issues
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple organs.
Joint pain, fatigue, skin rash, and fever are common symptoms.
ANA testing and other autoimmune markers are used.
There is no permanent cure, but treatment controls symptoms.
It may affect skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and other organs.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.