Disease
Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
Overview of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. Lupus is unpredictable, with flare-ups followed by periods of remission.
It is more common in women, particularly during childbearing years, and presents in many forms, making diagnosis and management challenging.
Types of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): The most common and severe type, affecting multiple organs.
- Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): Affects the skin, causing thick, scaly rashes, often leaving scars.
- Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (SCLE): Causes widespread skin lesions worsened by sun exposure.
- Drug-Induced Lupus: Triggered by certain medications, symptoms usually disappear after stopping the drug.
- Neonatal Lupus: A rare form affecting newborns of women with lupus antibodies.
Symptoms of Lupus
- Fatigue, joint pain, and swelling
- Butterfly rash across cheeks and nose
- Discoid lesions and autoimmune rashes on the body
- Mouth ulcers and hair loss
- Light sensitivity and skin reactions
- Kidney issues and associated rashes
- Cognitive difficulties and headaches
- Fever, chest pain, and swollen lymph nodes
Causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal influences, especially estrogen
- Environmental triggers such as UV light, infections, and certain medications
- Abnormal immune responses leading to inflammation and tissue damage
Complications in SLE
- Kidney damage (Lupus nephritis)
- Heart and lung inflammation
- Neurological symptoms like seizures or psychosis
- Pregnancy complications and miscarriages
- Blood disorders, such as anemia or lupus anticoagulant presence
- Increased risk of infections and osteoporosis
Risk Factors of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
- Gender: Predominantly affects females
- Age: Most commonly diagnosed between ages 15–45
- Family history: Presence of autoimmune diseases
- Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in African, Asian, and Hispanic populations
- Triggers: Long-term sun exposure or infections
Preventions of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
No absolute prevention, but you can reduce flare-ups by:
- Using sunscreen to avoid UV-triggered rashes
- Managing stress and infections
- Avoiding medications known to trigger lupus
- Regular exercise and a balanced lupus diet
- Monitoring health regularly with a lupus specialist
Diagnosis of Lupus
- Physical examination and medical history review
- Blood tests including ANA (antinuclear antibody) and anti-dsDNA
- Urine analysis to detect kidney involvement
- Skin or kidney biopsy if needed
- Criteria-based assessment (based on multiple symptoms)
Treatments of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
- NSAIDs and corticosteroids for inflammation and joint pain
- Antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine
- Immunosuppressive drugs for severe cases
- Biologic therapies targeting immune system pathways
- Personalised treatment plans to manage symptoms and prevent damage
Prognosis of Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)
- With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many patients live a normal or near-normal lifespan
- Disease severity and organ involvement affect long-term outcomes
- Regular monitoring and adherence to medication improve quality of life
- Advances in treatment have significantly increased life expectancy
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
Why Choose Specialist Lupus Care?
- Thorough evaluation by lupus specialists
- Individualised treatment plans with the latest medications
- Coordination for diagnostic tests and biopsies
- Counseling on lifestyle changes and lupus nutrition
- Assistance with affordable care and international patient support
Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Lupus Consultation
- What causes my lupus flare-ups?
- Is this butterfly rash permanent?
- Can I get pregnant safely with lupus?
- Will I lose more hair from lupus treatment?
- How long will I need to take medications?
- What lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms?
- Can lupus increase the risk of cancer?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During a Lupus Consultation
- Clear explanation of the type of lupus you have
- Guidance on test reports and blood markers
- Help understanding autoimmune triggers
- Honest discussion of prognosis and treatment options
- Support for mental health and fatigue management
- Suggestions for managing skin symptoms and sun sensitivity
- Medication advice including side effects and benefits
- Information on fertility, pregnancy, and family planning
- Education on flare-up management
- Referrals to other specialists when needed