Q & A – SYSTEMIC LUPUS
ERYTHEMATOSUS
1. What is systemic lupus erythematosus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease.
Autoimmune diseases are illnesses which occur, when the
immune system attacks the tissues of the body. SLE can affect any
part of the body.
The antibodies which are produced by the immune system, bind
to the microbes or foreign agent to fight against the infections.
People who are affected with lupus produce abnormal antibodies
which are called auto-antibodies. These auto-antibodies go
through blood and bind to tissues of the body without binding
with microbes or foreign agents. These auto-antibodies cause
inflammation and damage in joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs,
blood vessels, or the brain.
When only the skin is affected, it is called “lupus dermatitis” or “
cutaneous lupus erythematosus ”. When internal organs are
affected, it is called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
2. What are the Signs and Symptoms of SLE ?
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Lupus is characterized by the following signs and symptoms:
Extreme fatigue
Painful and swollen joints (non-erosive arthritis)
Muscle pain and stiffness
fever
Skin rashes, ( characteristic "butterfly" rash in the form of
erythema and edema on the nose and cheeks
Hair loss ( alopecia ) especially at the frontal area of the scalp
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
Oral and nasal ulcers
Headaches, migraine, and seizures