Systemic lupus erythematosus is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of body tissues caused by autoimmune disease. Lupus can cause disease of the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, joints, and nervous system. When only the skin is involved, the condition is called discoid lupus. When internal organs are involved, the condition is called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Read more: Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or SLE) Article
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
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What Is Lupus? Symptoms, Rash, and Treatment
What is Lupus? Learn about lupus symptoms like butterfly rash, joint pain and fatigue. Find causes, diagnosis, and treatments for...
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What Does It Mean When Your Whole Body Aches?
Body aches are a symptom of the flu, arthritis, autoimmune disease, infections like Lyme disease, and other conditions. Body pain...
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Your Face: A Window Into Your Health
What medical problems appear on your face? Look into the mirror and find out. Jaundice, glaucoma, skin cancer, and cracked lips...
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The 18 Most Expensive U.S. Medical Conditions
What are the most expensive medical conditions? Learn about heart conditions, brain disorders, back pain and many more expensive...
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Quiz: Test Your SLE IQ
This Lupus Quiz covers causes, signs, symptoms, facts, and treatments for this inflammatory autoimmune disease.
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Picture of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus 1
A chronic inflammatory condition caused by an autoimmune disease. See a picture of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and learn...
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Picture of Lupus
A chronic inflammatory condition caused by an autoimmune disease. See a picture of Lupus Rash and learn more about the health...
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Picture of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus 2
Erythematous, edematous plaques appear in a "butterfly" distribution on the face. See a picture of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus...
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Picture of Acute Systemic Lupus
Acute systemic lupus erythematosus. See a picture of Acute Systemic Lupus and learn more about the health topic.
IMAGES
Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or SLE) See a pictures of systemic lupus erythematosus and vascular, lymphatic and systemic conditions See ImagesRelated Disease Conditions
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Skin Rash
The word "rash" means an outbreak of red bumps on the body. The way people use this term, "a rash" can refer to many different skin conditions. The most common of these are scaly patches of skin and red, itchy bumps or patches all over the place.
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Kidney (Renal) Failure
Kidney failure can occur from an acute event or a chronic condition or disease. Prerenal kidney failure is caused by blood loss, dehydration, or medication. Some of the renal causes of kidney failure include sepsis, medications, rhabdomyolysis, multiple myeloma, and acute glomerulonephritis. Post renal causes of kidney failure include bladder obstruction, prostate problems, tumors, or kidney stones.Treatment options included diet, medications, or dialysis.
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Anemia: Symptoms, Treatment and Causes
Anemia is the condition of having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is, therefore, decreased. There are several types of anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (the most common type), sickle cell anemia, vitamin B12 anemia, pernicious anemia, and aplastic anemia. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, malaise, hair loss, palpitations, menstruation, and medications. Treatment for anemia includes treating the underlying cause for the condition. Iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, and certain medications may also be necessary.
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Fever in Adults and Children
Although a fever technically is any body temperature above the normal of 98.6 F (37 C), in practice, a person is usually not considered to have a significant fever until the temperature is above 100.4 F (38 C). Fever is part of the body's own disease-fighting arsenal; rising body temperatures apparently are capable of killing off many disease-producing organisms.
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Vaginal Bleeding
Normal vaginal bleeding (menorrhea) occurs through the process of menstruation. Abnormal vaginal bleeding in women who are ovulating regularly most commonly involves excessive, frequent, irregular, or decreased bleeding. Causes of abnormal may arise from a variety of conditions that may include, uterine fibroids, IUDs, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, lupus, STDs, pelvic inflammatory disease, emotional stress, anorexia nervosa, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), cancers, early pregnancy.
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Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelet Count)
Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) refers to a decreased number of platelets in the blood. Symptoms of thrombocytopenia include: Increased bruising Spontaneous bleeding Small, purple spots under the skin called purpura There are many causes of thrombocytopenia such as decreased platelet production (viral infections for example rubella, mumps, chickenpox, hepatitis C, and HIV); increased platelet destruction or consumption (for example sulfonamide antibiotics, heparin, blood transfusions, and lupus); or increased splenic sequestration (enlarged spleen due to conditions for example liver disease, blood cancers, and more). Treatment of thrombocytopenia depends on the cause.
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Hair Loss (Alopecia)
There are many causes of scalp hair loss. This featured article covers the common ones such as patchy hair loss (alopecia areata, trichotillomania, and tinea capitis), telogen effluvium, and androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness, female-pattern baldness).
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Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring throughout the lungs. Pulmonary fibrosis can be caused by many conditions including chronic inflammatory processes, infections, environmental agents, exposure to ionizing radiation, chronic conditions, and certain medications. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and diminished exercise tolerance. Treatment options are dependent on the type of pulmonary fibrosis; lung transplant and/or medications are options.
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Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon is characterized by a pale-blue-red sequence of color changes of the digits, most commonly after exposure to cold. Occurring as a result of spasm of blood vessels, the cause is unknown. Symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon depend on the severity, frequency, and duration of the blood vessel spasm. Treatments include protection of the digits, medications, and avoiding emotional stresses, smoking, cold temperature, and tools that vibrate the hands.
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Leukemia
Leukemia is a type of cancer of the blood cells in which the growth and development of the blood cells are abnormal. Strictly speaking, leukemia should refer only to cancer of the white blood cells (the leukocytes) but in practice it can apply to malignancy of any cellular element in the blood or bone marrow, as in red cell leukemia (erythroleukemia).
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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, the tissue around the joints, as well as other organs in the body. Because it can affect multiple other organs of the body, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as a systemic illness and is sometimes called rheumatoid disease. The 16 characteristic early RA signs and symptoms include the following. Anemia Both sides of the body affected (symmetric) Depression Fatigue Fever Joint deformity Joint pain Joint redness Joint stiffness Joint swelling Joint tenderness Joint warmth Limping Loss of joint function Loss of joint range of motion Many joints affected (polyarthritis)
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Foot Pain
Foot pain may be caused by injuries (sprains, strains, bruises, and fractures), diseases (diabetes, Hansen disease, and gout), viruses, fungi, and bacteria (plantar warts and athlete's foot), or even ingrown toenails. Pain and tenderness may be accompanied by joint looseness, swelling, weakness, discoloration, and loss of function. Minor foot pain can usually be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation and OTC medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Severe pain should be treated by a medical professional.
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Fatigue
Fatigue can be described in various ways. Sometimes fatigue is described as feeling a lack of energy and motivation (both mental and physical). The causes of fatigue are generally related to a variety of conditions or diseases, for example, anemia, mono, medications, sleep problems, cancer, anxiety, heart disease, and drug abuse.Treatment of fatigue is generally directed toward the condition or disease that is causing the fatigue.
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Arthritis (Joint Inflammation)
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints. When joints are inflamed they can develop stiffness, warmth, swelling, redness and pain. There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, gout, and pseudogout.
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Pleurisy (Pleuritis)
Pleurisy, an inflammation of the lining around the lungs, is associated with sharp chest pain upon breathing in. Cough, chest tenderness, and shortness of breath are other symptoms associated with pleurisy. Pleurisy pain can be managed with pain medication and by external splinting of the chest wall.
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Pleural Effusion (Fluid in the Pleural Space)
Pleural effusion is a buildup of fluid in the chest or on the lungs. There are two types of pleural effusion, transudate and exudate. Causes of transudate pleural effusion include congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and cirrhosis. Exudate pleural effusion can be caused by malignancy (cancer) or lung infection. Typically, transudate pleural effusion is more easily treatable. Symptoms of pleural effusion include chest pain, pain when breathing, difficulty breathing, and cough. Treatment depends on the source or cause of the pleural effusion.
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Sun-Sensitive Drugs (Photosensitivity to Drugs)
Sun sensitivity (photosensitivity) is an inflammation of the skin induced by the combination of medications or substances and sunlight. The effect on the skin is redness, which looks similar to a sunburn. Generally, these reactions are either phototoxic or photoallergic. Phototoxic drugs are more common than photoallergic drugs. Symptoms of phototoxic reactions are a burning and stinging sensation and then redness. Symptoms of photoallergic reactions are itching, redness, swelling, and blisters of the affected area. Treatment generally is discontinuation of the medication and topical application of creams.Treatment generally is discontinuation of the medication and topical application of creams.
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Corneal Ulcer
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea. Infection is a common cause of corneal ulcer. Symptoms and signs of corneal ulcer include redness, eye pain and discharge, blurred vision, photophobia, and a gray or white spot on the cornea. Treatment depends upon the cause of the corneal ulcer.
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Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth is a common side effect of many prescription and non-prescription drugs and certain medical conditions. Symptoms of dry mouth include a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, sores in the mouth; sores or split skin at the corners of the mouth, cracked lips, a dry feeling in the throat, a burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, and a dry, red, raw tongue.
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Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) refers to diseases of the blood vessels (arteries and veins) located outside the heart and brain. While there are many causes of peripheral vascular disease, doctors commonly use the term peripheral vascular disease to refer to peripheral artery disease (peripheral arterial disease, PAD), a condition that develops when the arteries that supply blood to the internal organs, arms, and legs become completely or partially blocked as a result of atherosclerosis. Peripheral artery disease symptoms include intermittent leg pain while walking, leg pain at rest, numbness in the legs or feet, and poor wound healing in the legs or feet. Treatment for peripheral artery disease include lifestyle measures, medication, angioplasty, and surgery.
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Costochondritis and Tietze Syndrome
Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage where the ribs attach to the sternum. Tietze syndrome affects the same region of the chest and causes inflammation, tenderness, and swelling. Anti-inflammatory medications, rest, physical therapy, and cortisone injections are suitable methods of treatment for both costochondritis and Tietze syndrome.
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Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a problem with the functioning of the nerves outside of the spinal cord. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, burning pain (especially at night), and loss of reflexes. Possible causes may include carpel tunnel syndrome, shingles, vitamin or nutritional deficiencies, and illnesses like diabetes, syphilis, AIDS, and kidney failure. Peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed with exams and tests. Treatment for the condition depends on the cause. Usually, the prognosis for peripheral neuropathy is good if the cause can be successfully treated or prevented.
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Graves' Disease
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid. Some of the symptoms of Graves' disease include hand tremors, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, enlarged thyroid, thinning of the skin or fine brittle hair. Causes of Graves' disease are thought to be multifactorial such as genes, gender, stress, and infection. Treatment for Graves' disease is generally medication.
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Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tender points. Stress reduction, exercise, and medication are the standard treatments for fibromyalgia.
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Peritonitis
Peritonitis is a bacterial infection inside of the abdomen. Some doctors choose to group the causes of peritonitis into five categories; 1) primary peritonitis, 2) secondary peritonitis, 3) tertiary peritonitis, 4) chemical (sterile) peritonitis, and 5) peritoneal abscess. Others do not categorize peritonitis, they use a term to describe the disease in front or behind the word peritonitis. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment is generally with antibiotics.
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Sjogren's Syndrome
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease involving the abnormal production of extra antibodies that attack the glands and connective tissue. Sjögren's syndrome with gland inflammation (resulting dry eyes and mouth, etc.) that is not associated with another connective tissue disease is referred to as primary Sjögren's syndrome. Sjögren's syndrome that is also associated with a connective tissue disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma, is referred to as secondary Sjögren's syndrome. Though there is no cure for Sjögren's syndrome, the symptoms may be treated by using lubricating eye ointments, drinking plenty of water, humidifying the air, and using glycerin swabs. Medications are also available to treat dry eye and dry mouth.
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Vasculitis
Vasculitis (arteritis, angiitis) is a general term for a group of uncommon diseases which feature inflammation of the blood vessels. Each form of vasculitis has its own characteristic pattern of symptoms. The diagnosis of vasculitis is definitively established after a biopsy of involved tissue demonstrates the pattern of blood vessel inflammation. Treatment is directed toward decreasing the inflammation of the arteries and improving the function of affected organs.
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Pericarditis (Symptoms, ECG, Types, Causes, Treatment)
Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardial sac that surrounds the heart. The causes of pericarditis include injury from heart attack, heart surgery, trauma, viral or fungal infection, HIV, tumors, mixed connective tissue disease, metabolic disease, medication reactions, or unknown reasons. Treatment for pericarditis is generally medication, however, sometimes surgery is necessary.
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Scleritis
Scleritis is inflammation of the white part of the eye. It may be caused by a serious underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease. Symptoms include redness, pain, tearing, sensitivity to light, and decreased visual acuity. Treatment may include eyedrops as well as treatment for any underlying disease process. Scleritis cannot be prevented.
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Sunburn (Sun Poisoning)
Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV rays can also damage the eyes. Repeated overexposure to UV rays also increases the risk for scarring, freckles, wrinkles, and dry skin. Symptoms of sunburn include painful, red, tender, and hot skin.The skin may blister, swell, and peel. Sun poisoning (severe sunburn) include nausea, fever, chills, rapid pulse, dizziness and more. Home remedies can help relieve sunburn pain, blisters, and peeling. Severe sunburns may need medical treatment. Sun protection and sunscreen for an person's skin type is recommended to decrease the chance of a severe sunburn and sun poisoning.
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Trigeminal Neuralgia
Pain that originates in the face is referred to as trigeminal neuralgia. This pain may be caused by: an injury, an infection in the face, a nerve disorder, or it can occur for no known reason. Trigeminal neuralgia can be treated with antiseizure medications. Some antidepressant drugs also have significant pain relieving effects.
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Depression
Depression is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts and affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks about things. The principal types of depression are major depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disease (also called manic-depressive disease).
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What Is Usually the First Sign of Lupus?
Fatigue, fever, joint pain and weight changes are usually the first signs of lupus. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system of the body attacks its healthy tissue. It affects joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys and blood vessels, leading to inflammation and tissue damage of the affected organs.
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS or SEID)
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID) is a debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that lasts six months or longer, is not improved by bed rest, and may be worsened by physical or mental activity.
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Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
Polymyositis is a disease of the muscle featuring inflammation of the muscle fibers. It results in weakness of the muscles which can be severe and when associated with skin rash, is referred to as dermatomyositis. Although the cause of this disease is unknown, diagnosis includes physical examination of muscle strength, blood tests for muscle enzymes, electrical tests of muscle and nerves, and conformation by a muscle biopsy. Treatment of polymyositis and dermatomyositis includes high doses of cortisone-related medications, immune suppression, and physical therapy.
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Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Types, Treatment, and Symptoms
Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes. These membranes react to a wide range of bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents.
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Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a condition in which a person has inflammation of the small intestinal mucosa when exposed to gluten in the diet. Symptoms of celiac disease include bloating, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Treatment is a gluten free diet. Some individuals may have refractory celiac disease in which they do not respond to a gluten free diet.
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Heart Murmur
A heart murmur is a heart problem that can occur, for example, during pregnancy or exercise, or it can be a symptom of serious heart condition, for example, congenital heart defects or heart valve disease. A heart murmur makes a whooshing or swishing sound. Symptoms of a heart murmur include swelling of the legs or feet, dizzy or lightheaded, blackouts, chest pain, rapid heart rate (palpitations), difficulty doing normal daily activities, fatigue, and a bluish tinge on the skin, lips, and fingernails. Treatment for heart murmurs in infants, children, and adults depend on the cause. Some heart murmurs can be harmless while some are serious and life threatening.
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Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is elevated pressure in the pulmonary arteries that carry blood from the lungs to the heart. The most common symptoms are fatigue and difficulty breathing. If the condition goes undiagnosed, more severe symptoms may occur. As pulmonary hypertension worsens, some people with the condition have difficulty performing any activities that require physical exertion. While there is no cure for pulmonary hypertension, it can be managed and treated with medications and supplemental oxygen to increase blood oxygen levels.
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Seizure (Epilepsy)
Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which the person has seizures. There are two kinds of seizures, focal and generalized. There are many causes of epilepsy. Treatment of epilepsy (seizures) depends upon the cause and type of seizures experienced.
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Miscarriage
Miscarriage is the medical term for the spontaneous loss of pregnancy from conception to 20 weeks gestation. Risk factors for a woman having a miscarriage include cigarette smoking, older maternal age, radiation exposure, previous miscarriage, maternal weight, illicit drug use, use of NSAIDs, and trauma or anatomical abnormalities to the uterus. There are five classified types of miscarriage: 1) threatened abortion; 2) incomplete abortion; 3) complete abortion; 4) missed abortion; and (5 septic abortion. While there are no specific treatments to stop a miscarriage, a woman's doctor may advise avoiding certain activities, bed rest, etc. If a woman believes she has had a miscarriage, she needs to seek prompt medical attention.
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What Is Iritis?
Iritis is inflammation of the iris, the colored portion of the eye. Symptoms include a red, painful eye, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. Treatment usually involves cortisone eyedrops.
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Lupus
Second Source article from WebMD
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Antiphospholipid syndrome (phospholipid antibody syndrome or Hughes syndrome) is an immune system disorder with symptoms that include: excessive blood clotting, miscarriages unexplained fetal death, or premature birth. In antiphospholipid syndrome, these symptoms are accompanied by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (cardiolipin or lupus anticoagulant antibodies) in the blood. Treatment focuses on preventing clotting by thinning the blood with the use of anticoagulants and aspirin.
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What Are the 4 Types of Lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. It affects the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels, leading to inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs.
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Connective Tissue (CT) Disease
Connective tissue disease is when the body's connective tissues come under attack, possibly becoming injured by inflammation. Inherited connective tissue diseases include Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, polymositis, and dermatomyositis are examples of connective tissue diseases that have no known cause.
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Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, the structure that connects the eye to the brain. The precise cause of optic neuritis is unknown, but it is thought to be a type of autoimmune disorder. Optic neuritis most commonly develops due to an autoimmune disorder that may be triggered by a viral infection.
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Interstitial Lung Disease (Interstitial Pneumonia)
Interstitial lung disease refers to a variety of diseased that thicken the tissue between the lungs' air sacks. Symptoms of interstitial lung disease include shortness of breath, cough, and vascular problems, and their treatment depends on the underlying cause of the tissue thickening. Causes include viruses, bacteria, tobacco smoke, environmental factors, cancer, and heart or kidney failure.
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Lupus
Second Source article from Government
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Scars
Scar formation is a natural part of the healing process after injury. The depth and size of the wound incision and the location of the injury impact the scar's characteristics, but your age, heredity and even sex or ethnicity will affect how your skin reacts.
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Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is an invasive tumor that develops in the mammary gland. Breast cancer is detected via mammograms, breast self-examination (BSE), biopsy, and specialized testing on breast cancer tissue. Treatment of breast cancer may involve surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Breast cancer risk may be lowered by managing controllable risk factors. What you should know about breast cancer Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.One in every eight women in the United States develops breast cancer.There are many types of breast cancer that differ in their capability of spreading (metastasize) to other body tissues.The causes of breast cancer are unknown, although medical professionals have identified a number of risk factors.There are many different types of breast cancer.Breast cancer symptoms and signs includea lump in the breast or armpit,bloody nipple discharge,inverted nipple,orange-peel texture or dimpling of the breast's skin (peau d'orange),breast pain or sore nipple,swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpit, anda change in the size or shape of the breast or nipple.Breast cancer can also be symptom free, which makes following national screening recommendations an important practice.Breast cancer is diagnosed during a physical exam, by a self-exam of the breasts, mammography, ultrasound testing, and biopsy.Treatment of breast cancer depends on the type of cancer and its stage (0-IV) and may involve surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
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Osteoarthritis vs. Osteoporosis Differences and Similarities
Arthritis is defined as painful inflammation and joint stiffness. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis and the most common cause of chronic joint pain, affecting over 25 million Americans. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that involves the entire joint. Osteoporosis is not a type of arthritis. It is a disease that mainly is caused by a loss of bone tissue that is not limited to the joint areas. It is possible for one person to have both osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. The differences in the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis include; pain, stiffness, and joint swelling, joint deformity, crackle sounds when the joint is moving, and walking with a limp. Osteoporosis is called the "silent disease" because it can progress for years without signs and symptoms before it is diagnosed, severe back pain, bone fractures, height loss, and difficulty or inability to walk. The differences in the causes of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are that osteoarthritis usually is caused by wear and tear on the joints. Osteoporosis usually is caused by one or more underlying problems, for example, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. Treatment for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are not the same. There is no cure for osteoarthritis or osteoporosis.
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Uveitis
Uveitis is inflammation of the eye. Symptoms include blurred vision, eye pain, eye redness, photophobia, and floaters. Treatment may involve prescription eyedrops, antibiotics, and wearing dark glasses.
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Moyamoya Disease
Moyamoya disease is an inherited (genetic) progressive cerebrovascular disorder caused by arteries that are blocked at the base of the brain. Moyamoya means "puff of smoke" in Japanese. Signs and symptoms of Moyamoya disease in adults include fainting, and vision problems, and in children included may include headaches and speech problems. There are 6 stages of Moyamoya disease. Surgery is the preferred treatment for the disease, and there is no cure for Moyamoya disease, and it can be fatal.
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Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are caused by an imbalance in the tear-flow system of the eye, but also can be caused by the drying out of the tear film. This can be due to dry air created by air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions. Treatment may involve self-care measures, medications, or rarely, surgery.
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Aseptic Necrosis
Aseptic necrosis (avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis) develops when blood supply diminishes to an area of bone and causes bone death. Though aseptic necrosis may be painless, pain is often associated when using the degenerating bone. If caught early, aseptic necrosis may be treated by grafting new bone into the degenerating area. In later stages, joint replacement surgery may be required.
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Rheumatology
Rheumatology is the study of rheumatic diseases and conditions. Rheumatologists are internal medicine physicians who treat these illnesses, in particular arthritis.
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Encephalitis
Encephalitis is a brain inflammation that causes sudden fever, vomiting, headache, light sensitivity, stiff neck and back, drowsiness, and irritability. Treatment may incorporate anticonvulsants and antiviral medications.
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Bullous Pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid is a skin disease that causes blistering eruptions on the skin's surface and sometimes affects the inner lining of the mouth. Symptoms include severe itching and burning sensations. Treatment involves topical cortisone and sometimes high doses of cortisone. Severe cases may require immune-suppression drugs such as azathioprine.
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Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancer is cancer of the oral cavity, salivary glands, paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, or lymph nodes in the upper part of the neck. These cancers account for 3% to 5% of cancers in the U.S. Tobacco and alcohol use are important risk factors. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.
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How Do You Get Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system targets and attacks its own tissues and organs. The specific reason for getting lupus is unknown. Researchers understand, however, lupus involves some interaction among various factors including one’s genes, ethnicity, immune system, hormones, and the environment. Lupus is a lifelong disease that can directly or indirectly affect any part of the body.
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What Are the 12 Symptoms of Lupus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system of the body attacks healthy tissue. It affects joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys and blood vessels, leading to inflammation and tissue damage of the affected organs. More than 90% of cases occur in females. Fatigue, weakness, joint pain and rash are some of the most common of the symptoms of lupus.
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What Are the Four Types of Lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. It affects joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys and blood vessels, leading to inflammation and tissue damage of the affected organs. The four types are lupus dermatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), drug-induced, and neonatal.
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Is Lupus Contagious?
Systemic lupus erythematosus in an inflammatory disease. Symptoms and signs include joint pain, fever, and rash. Though lupus is incurable, early medical intervention can help to reduce inflammation and protect the affected individual's organs.
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Why Would You Need Plasmapheresis?
Plasmapheresis is a procedure that removes antibodies against the person's own body cells and tissues (autoantibodies) from the blood. Medical professionals may use plasmapheresis to treat neurological or autoimmune diseases, toxins in the blood, and lower cholesterol that hasn't responded to medications or dietary changes.
Treatment & Diagnosis
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test and Levels
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Test, Types, Ranges, and Chart
- Antinuclear Antibody Test
- Thyroid Peroxidase Test
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan)
- Sedimentation Rate
- Steroids: for the Treatment of Arthritis
- Dialysis
- Total Hip Replacement
- Apheresis (Hemapheresis, Pheresis)
- LASIK Eye Surgery
- Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Lupus: Differences and Similarities
- Skin Biopsy
- IV Drug Infusion FAQs
- Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
- Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
- Red Spots on the Skin
- Leg Pain
- Tingling in Hands and Feet
- Loss of Appetite
- Fatigue, Tiredness, and Lethargy
- Hemolysis
- Muscle Pain (Myalgia)
- Nail Separation
- Mouth Sores
- Cold Feet and Toes
- Rash
- Low Urine Output
- Fever
- Headache
- Joint Redness
- Cold Hands
- Enlarged Heart
- Loss of Temperature Sensation
- Chapped Lips (Cheilitis)
- Joint Stiffness
- Koilonychia
- Swollen Joints
- Hair Loss
- Proteinuria (Protein in the Urine)
- Joint Warmth
- Seizure (Epilepsy)
- Knee Pain
- Joint Deformity
- Decreased Appetite
- Pleurisy (Pleuritis)
- How to Choose a Doctor
- Telangiectasia
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Splinter Hemorrhage
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis)
- Doctor: Checklist to Take To Your Doctor's Appointment
- Lupus: Dx & Tx
- Lupus: Living With Systemic Lupus
- Doctor: Getting the Most from Your Doctor's Appointment
- Lupus Alert Day
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus FAQs
- MCTD vs. UCTD (Mixed Connective Tissue Disease vs. Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease)
- Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects Arthritis
- Is Lupus Genetic?
- Arthritis Roller Coaster
- Lupus - 2001 National Meeting Reports
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus 2002 Arthritis Conference Report
- National Arthritis Meeting 2003
- SLE Report - 2003 Arthritis Conference
- Psoriasis, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis Share One Gene
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: 2004 Perspectives
- National Arthritis Meeting 2004
- Coping with a Bad Disease - Community Counts
- Are Lupus and Psychosis Connected?
- Why Do Pregnant Women Get a Lupus Test?
- Does Lupus Affect the Spine?
- Does Lupus Cause Nerve Damage?
- Can Erythema Nodosum Cause Iritis?
- What Are Hypercoagulable States?
- Should People With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Avoid Smoking?
- Ro and La Vs. SS-A and SS-B Antibodies: What Are the Differences?
- How Often Do People Get ANA-Negative Lupus?
- Does Lupus Cause Seizures?
- Is There a Test for Fibromyalgia?
- Does Double-Stranded DNA Mean You Have Lupus?
- Is There a Connection Between Positive ANA and Miscarriage?
- What Is ANA-Negative Lupus?
- Does Discoid Lupus Cause Enlarged Spleen?
- What are The Symptoms of Lupus in a Child?
- Can Lupus Cause Hip Pain?
- Can UCTD Turn into Lupus?
- What Are Safe Exercises with Lupus?
- Is Lupus Hereditary?
- Is Polyarteritis Nodosa Different from Lupus?
- Sjogren's Syndrome Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnosis
- Lupus: Pain in Neck & Back
- Lupus Nephritis Treatment
- Lupus: 2005 Arthritis Conference Highlights
- Women, Hormones, and Lupus Audio Podcast
Medications & Supplements
- Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroids (Systemic, Oral, Injections, Types)
- prednisone (Prednisone Intensol, Rayos) Corticosteroid
- Monoclonal Antibodies
- Birth Control Pills (List of Oral Contraceptives and Side Effects)
- Beta Blockers (Drug Class, List of Brand and Generic Names)
- aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, Bayer, Ecotrin, and others)
- Biologics (Biologic Drug Class)
- ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin)
- dexamethasone (Decadron, DexPak)
- naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn)
- rituximab (Rituxan)
- tretinoin (Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Atralin, Renova, Avita)
- hydroxychloroquine - oral, Plaquenil
- prednisolone (Orapred, Pediapred)
- misoprostol, Cytotec
- licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept)
- Chloroquine (Aralen) vs. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
- phenytoin (Dilantin)
- Side Effects of Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine)
- methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall)
- omega-3 fatty acids - oral, Max Epa, Omega-3, Salmon Oil,
- hydralazine-injection
- azathioprine (Azasan)
- Aralen (chloroquine)
- Aspirin Therapy (Guidelines for Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention)
- cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
- dapsone - oral
- sulindac (Clinoril)
- penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)
- mometasone (Elocon)
- quinidine (Discontinued Brands: Cardioquine, Cin-Quin, Duraquin, Quinidex, Quinora, Quinact)
- belimumab (Benlysta)
- Side Effects of Lupkynis (voclosporin)
- cyclosporine - intravenous, Sandimmune
- chlorambucil - oral, Leukeran
- Benlysta (belimumab) Side Effects, Warnings, and Drug Interactions
- Lupkynis (voclosporin)
Prevention & Wellness
- More Than 200,000 Americans Have Lupus
- Companion Drug Might Help Prevent Kidney Complications of Lupus
- COVID-19 Ills No Greater for Those With Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus Drug Prevents Low Heartbeat in High-Risk Newborns: Study
- Trump-Touted Hydroxychloroquine in Short Supply for Lupus Patients
- After Trump Hypes Use of a Lupus Med Against COVID-19, Lupus Patients Face Shortages
- Aralen, Plaquenil Shortages From COVID-19 Threaten Lupus, RA Patients
- Research Finds Contagious Staph in Lupus-Related Skin Rashes
- Sticking With Meds Lowers Lupus Patients' Diabetes Risk
- Health Tip: Signs of Lupus
- Drug Could Offer New Option Against Lupus
- Many Americans With Rheumatic Disease Face Financial, Lifestyle Pressures
- 'Alarming' Number of Lupus Patients Use Opioids for Pain: Study
- More Active Lupus Linked to Childhood Events
- Benlysta Approved for Children With Lupus
- Gut Microbes May Help Drive Lupus, Study Finds
- Cablivi Approved for Rare Clotting Disorder
- Pregnancy Complications Down for Women With Lupus
- Scans Help Spot Heart Trouble Early in People With Lupus
- Could Fish Oil, Vitamin D Help Ease Lupus?
- Exercise May Stem Kidney Damage in Lupus Patients
- Selena Gomez's Kidney Transplant Puts Lupus Center Stage
- Selena Gomez Had a Kidney Transplant Earlier This Year
- Lupus Hits Certain Groups Harder
- Poverty Could Make Lupus Even Worse
- Drug Offers Some Hope for a Deadly Lung Cancer
- Immune Disorders Such as MS, Psoriasis May Be Tied to Dementia Risk
- How the Neanderthal in Your Genes Affects Your Health
- Delays in Lupus Care Seen Among Minorities, Less Educated
- Nearly 3 Percent of U.S. Adults Have Weakened Immunity: Study
- Gene Test Might Quickly ID Baby's Infection
- Lupus a Tough Disease to Spot, Treat
- Study Suggests Causes for Lupus' Impact on Immune System
- Blood Tests May Predict Pregnancy Risks for Women With Lupus
- Pregnancy Results Good for Women With Controlled Lupus: Study
- Many Women Unaware of Female-Specific Stroke Symptoms
- 'Ground Zero' Workers at Risk of Autoimmune Diseases: Study
- Mercury in Seafood May Raise Risk of Autoimmune Diseases in Women: Study
- Lupus Death Rates Vary by Race, Ethnicity, Study Finds
- Drug Combo Helps Lupus-Related Kidney Condition
- Certain Symptoms Can Delay Lupus Diagnosis, Researchers Report
- Lupus Patients Face High Rehospitalization Rates
- Inflammatory Muscle Disorder May Raise Risk for Heart Attack, Stroke
- Groundbreaking Partnership Formed to Develop New Treatments
- Vitamin D Supplements: FAQ
- Neanderthal DNA Influences Modern Humans: Study
- 10 Percent of U.S. Adults Physically Limited by Arthritis: CDC
- High Blood Pressure, Steroids May Worsen Lupus
- Lupus More Likely to Affect Young, Black Women, Study Finds
- A Blood Test for Fibromyalgia?
- Moms With Lupus More Likely to Have Children With Autism, Study Suggests
- Many Lupus Patients Forgo Needed Medication, Study Finds
- Headaches Accompanying Lupus Often Not Disease-Related, Study Finds
- Severe Blood Infections During Childbirth on Rise in U.S. Women
- Health Tip: Coping With Lupus
- Women With Lupus Seem at Higher Risk for Hip Fractures
- Will New Gout Findings Get a Toehold?
- No Evidence That Lupus Drugs Lead to Cancer, Says Study
- Drug Shows Promise for Lupus Skin Conditions
- Lupus May Be Linked to Serious Pregnancy Complication
- Scientists Inch Closer to Genetic Blueprint of Diseases
- New Immune-Deficiency Illness Emerging in East Asia
- Solving the Medical Mystery of Cold Feet
- Sunburn May Help Rid Body of Radiation-Damaged Cells
- Health Tip: Help Avoid a Lupus Flare
- Belly 'Membrane' May Regulate Immune System, Mouse Study Finds
- Flesh Eating Bacteria and Lupus
- Strides Made in Diagnosing, Treating Lupus
- Eye Color Linked to Skin Diseases
- New Guidelines for Kidney Disease Due to Lupus
- New Lupus Genes Identified
- Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Birth Rates
- Screening Moms-to-Be for Thyroid Trouble May Not Help Offspring
- Study Finds No Link Between HPV Vaccine and Autoimmune Disorders
- Genes May Give Clues to Severe Form of Lupus
- Some Causes of Stillbirth May Be Avoidable: Studies
- Radiation Plus Surgery Cuts Risk of Breast Cancer Return
- The X Factor: Why Women May Be Healthier Than Men
- Supplement May Ease Pain of Hand Osteoarthritis
- FDA: Breast Implant Safety Studies Will Continue
- FDA Questions Studies of Breast Implant Safety
- New Lupus Treatment Benlysta: FAQ
- Scientists Make Discoveries in the Biology of Lupus
- New Guidelines on Women's Heart Risk
- Celiac, Crohn's Disease Share Common Genetic Links
- 1 in 12 Women Will Have Autoimmune Disease
- Overactive Blood Platelets May Play Role in Lupus
- Health Tip: Signs That You May Have Lupus
- Health Tip: Things That Can Trigger Lupus Flares
- Psychotherapy Can Help People With Lupus Cope
- Genes Boost Risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus
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