Systemic Lupus erythematosus, SLE

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Lupus is an autoimmune disease characterized by acute and chronic inflammation of various tissues of the body. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses that occur when the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system. The immune system is a complex system within the body that is designed to fight infectious agents, such as bacteria and other foreign microbes. One of the ways that the immune system fights infections is by producing antibodies that bind to the microbes. People with lupus produce abnormal antibodies in their blood that target tissues within their own body rather than foreign infectious agents. These antibodies are referred to as autoantibodies. Because the antibodies and accompanying cells of inflammation can affect tissues anywhere in the body, lupus has the potential to affect a variety of areas. Sometimes lupus can cause disease of the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, joints, and-or nervous system. When only the skin is involved, the condition is called lupus dermatitis or cutaneous lupus erythematosus. A form of lupus dermatitis that can be isolated to the skin, without internal disease, is called discoid lupus. When internal organs are involved, the condition is referred to as systemic lupus erythematosus. This is a generalized disorder that can affect any system. Most commonly affects women during their reproductive years. Treatments for mild to moderate serositis or arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hydroxychloroquine, or corticosteroids. Treatments for more severe disease may include cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate mofetil plus corticosteroids.

Symptoms:

Laboratory Test Procedures:

red, flat facial rash over the bridge of nose
fever
muscle aches
joint aches
joint swelling
joint redness
mouth sores
sensitivity to light
built-up fluid in the heart or lungs
sensitivity to cold
pain in tips of the fingers or toes
cold fingers and toes
fatigue
loss of appetite
weight loss
nausea
chest pain
easy bruising
change in menstrual cycles
cognitive problems
concentration difficulties
restless legs syndrome
trouble sleeping
dry mouth
dry eyes
decreased body hair
brittle hair

Gamma-globulin
Rheumatoid Factor, titers
Homocysteine
BUN
Creatinine
Extractable Nuclear Antigen Antibodies
WBC (leukocytes) (URINE TEST)
WBC
Lymphocyte %
Lymphocyte Absolute
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All information on this page is intended for your general knowledge only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See Additional Information