In this Article

• What is lupus? What are the types of lupus?
• What causes lupus? Is it hereditary?
• What is drug-induced lupus?
• What are the symptoms and signs of lupus?
• How is lupus diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for systemic lupus?
• How can a lupus patient help prevent disease activity (flares)?
• How can lupus affect pregnancy or the newborn?
• What does the future hold for patients with lupus?
• Where can one get more information about lupus?
• Systemic Lupus At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Lupus - Symptoms at Onset of Disease
• Systemic Lupus Glossary
• Systemic Lupus Index

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus At A Glance

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease.
  
  
• SLE is characterized by the production of unusual antibodies in the blood.
  
  
• SLE is eight times more common in women than men.
  
  
• The cause(s) of SLE is (are) unknown, however, heredity, viruses, ultraviolet light, and drugs all may play some role.
  
  
• Up to 10% of patients with lupus isolated to the skin will develop the systemic form of lupus (SLE).
  
  
• Eleven criteria help doctors to diagnose SLE.
  
  
• Treatment of SLE is directed toward decreasing inflammation and/or the level of autoimmune activity.
  
  
• Patients with SLE can prevent "flares" of disease by avoiding sun exposure and not abruptly discontinuing medications and monitoring their condition with their doctor.

Lupus - Symptoms at Onset of Disease

The MedicineNet physician editors ask:

The symptoms of lupus can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

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