Autoimmune/Rheumatic

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common and severe form of lupus. It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces antibodies that attack the body's own healthy tissue, causing widespread inflammation and damage in multiple organ systems including joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain.

10

Symptoms

4

Causes

6

Treatments

2

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Butterfly (malar) rash across cheeks and nose
  • Photosensitivity
  • Oral ulcers
  • Non-scarring hair loss
  • Arthritis
  • Serositis (pleuritis, pericarditis)
  • Renal disorder (lupus nephritis)
  • Neuropsychiatric symptoms
  • Hematologic abnormalities
  • Fatigue

Causes

  • Autoimmune
  • Genetic predisposition (multiple gene variants)
  • Hormonal factors (estrogen)
  • Environmental triggers (UV light, infections, medications)

Diagnosis

  • ACR/EULAR classification criteria
  • ANA (positive in >95%)
  • Anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies
  • CBC, urinalysis, kidney function tests
  • Complement levels (C3, C4)

Treatment

  • Hydroxychloroquine (for all patients)
  • NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroids
  • Immunosuppressants (mycophenolate, azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide)
  • Biologic agents (belimumab, anifrolumab)
  • Voclosporin for nephritis

Risk Factors

  • Female sex (9:1 ratio)
  • Age 15–45
  • Black, Hispanic, Asian women
  • Family history

Prevention

  • No prevention
  • Sun protection critical for managing disease

Prevalence

Affects approximately 1.5 million Americans; 5 million worldwide.