Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in affected organs. SLE is a chronic condition that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and brain.

Key Characteristics of SLE

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction: The immune system creates antibodies that target and damage the body’s own cells and tissues.
2. Inflammation: Chronic inflammation leads to tissue and organ damage.
3. Multisystem Involvement: SLE can impact multiple organs and systems, varying widely from mild skin involvement to severe organ dysfunction.

Common Symptoms

SLE symptoms vary significantly but can include:

• Joint pain and swelling: Often the first symptom, affecting joints symmetrically.
• Skin rash: A characteristic “butterfly-shaped” rash across the cheeks and nose, as well as other sun-sensitive rashes.
• Fatigue: Severe tiredness that affects daily activities.
• Fever: Low-grade, chronic fever.
• Organ involvement: Kidney inflammation (lupus nephritis), heart, lung, and central nervous system issues.
• Other symptoms: Mouth ulcers (erythematous ulcers), photosensitivity, and Raynaud’s phenomenon (color changes in fingers/toes in response to cold).

Diagnosis

Diagnosing SLE involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. The diagnosis is based on:

• Medical history and physical examination.
• Blood tests: Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) test, anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), and anti-Smith (anti-Sm) antibodies, among others. Anti-histone antibodies are tested for drug induced lupus.
• Urinalysis: To detect kidney involvement.
• Imaging: May be required to assess organ involvement.

Treatment

There is no cure for SLE, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing flares. Common treatments include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To relieve joint pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and immune system activity.
• Immunosuppressive drugs: Such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil.
• Biologics: Belimumab and other targeted therapies to modulate immune response.
• Lifestyle management: Regular follow-ups, sun protection, a balanced diet, and exercise.

Prognosis and Complications

With early detection and effective treatment, many people with SLE can manage their symptoms and lead full lives. However, SLE can lead to severe complications such as kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, and neurological issues. Regular monitoring and treatment adjustments are essential to managing long-term effects.

Key Takeaways

SLE is a complex autoimmune disease that requires a personalized treatment approach, combining medications, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.