Blood, immune & lymphAutoimmuneICD-10 M32
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Also called: Lupus, SLE
A chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks many organs — skin, joints, kidneys, blood cells, heart and brain — with flares and remissions.
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Causes
- Autoimmunity with genetic, hormonal and environmental triggers
Risk factors
- Female sex (9:1)
- Age 15–45
- African, Asian or Hispanic ancestry
- Sunlight, some medicines
Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Butterfly rash across cheeks
- Photosensitivity
- Mouth ulcers
- Hair loss
- Chest pain on breathing
- Swelling from kidney disease
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- ANA and anti-dsDNA antibodies
- Complement levels
- Blood count and urine tests
- Kidney biopsy for nephritis
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Hydroxychloroquine for almost everyone
- Steroids for flares
- Immunosuppressants (mycophenolate, azathioprine)
- Belimumab, anifrolumab, voclosporin
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Strict sun protection
- Stop smoking
- Plan pregnancy with specialists
Possible complications
- Lupus nephritis
- Cardiovascular disease
- Blood clots (antiphospholipid syndrome)
- Infections
Prevention
- None
Outlook
Over 90% ten-year survival with modern care.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for joint pain with rash, fatigue and mouth ulcers.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
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