Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease that causes systemic inflammation which affects multiple organs. SLE often starts in females during their fertility age, although it can sometimes start during childhood. The disease tends to be more common and worse in African Americans and Asians. ~ 20% of people with SLE develop the disease as children or teens. The disease course is often marked by remission and relapses and may vary from mild to severe.
Signs/Symptoms
People can have non-specific symptoms including fever, fatigue, weight loss, and hair loss. Over 90 percent of patient can have joint pain and this often is an early manifestation. Most patient will have skin, mucous membrane symptoms. Pregnant women can have miscarriages. SLE can flare during pregnancy and can affect its outcome. Positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are present in nearly all lupus patients. Other antibody abnormalities may include + double stranded DNA, anti- smith, and antiphospholipid. Some symptoms may include lung, heart inflammation, kidney abnormality.
Treatments
Non pharmacological measures include sun protection, smoking cessation if patient with SLE smokes. The treatment goals are to suppress the overactive immune system and ultimately induce remission and prevent permanent organ damage. The medications required depend on the symptoms. Options include hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), steroids and immunosuppressants. The FDA has approved belimumab, voclosporin, and anifrolumab to help treat SLE. Multidisciplinary approach might be needed, requiring nephrology, pulmonary, dermatology referrals.