What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This can lead to widespread inflammation and damage to various organ systems, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and lungs.
Symptoms
SLE can manifest in a variety of symptoms, which often vary in severity and can flare up at different times. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling
- Skin rashes, particularly a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Fever
- Hair loss
- Raynaud's phenomenon, where fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold or stress
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Risk factors include being female, particularly between the ages of 15 and 44, having a family history of lupus, and exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as ultraviolet light.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. While there is no cure for SLE, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and minimize flare-ups, including corticosteroids, immune suppressants, and lifestyle modifications.