Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects many organs and tissues in the body. SLE is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is characterized by inflammation, damage to the body’s own tissues, and an immune system that is often overactive. The wide range of symptoms can make diagnosis and treatment of SLE challenging.
The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genetic variants have been associated with an increased risk of developing SLE, including variants of genes involved in inflammatory pathways and the immune system. Exposure to environmental triggers, such as ultraviolet rays, certain drugs, or infections, may also play a role in triggering SLE in susceptible individuals.
SLE is typically diagnosed based on a combination of clinical findings and laboratory tests. Common clinical symptoms of SLE include fatigue, joint pain, and a butterfly-shaped rash on the face. Common laboratory tests used to diagnose SLE include erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anti-nuclear antibody, and complement levels.
Treatment of SLE involves a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are commonly used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to reduce joint pain and swelling. Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding exposure to ultraviolet rays and avoiding certain drugs, are also important in managing SLE.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex and challenging disease with a wide range of symptoms. Its cause is still unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to be involved. Diagnosis of SLE is based on clinical findings and laboratory tests. Treatment of SLE requires a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications.
References
American College of Rheumatology. (2019). Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Retrieved from https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Systemic-Lupus-Erythematosus-SLE
Gladman, D. D., Ibañez, D., & Urowitz, M. B. (2002). Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. New England Journal of Medicine, 346(14), 1075–1087. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra010799
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789