Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system becomes abnormal and mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation in multiple organs. The severity of the disease can vary widely from mild to life-threatening.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing SLE, including:

• Gender: SLE is more common in females.

• Age: Although SLE can occur at any age, it most commonly affects women of reproductive age.

• Ethnicity: SLE is more prevalent among African-American, Hispanic, and Asian populations.

Causes of SLE

The exact cause of SLE is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of several factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition

• Environmental factors, such as exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation) and stress

• Viral infections or other illnesses

• Certain medications, such as methyldopa, procainamide, hydralazine, isoniazid, and chlorpromazine

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of SLE may occur intermittently, and the clinical manifestations vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• A red rash on the face or on areas exposed to sunlight

• Joint pain, particularly affecting both wrists and hands

• Swelling of the legs

• Hair loss

• Mouth ulcers

• Kidney involvement, such as inflammation, blood in the urine, or foamy urine

• Inflammation of the lungs or heart

• Blood abnormalities, including anemia, low white blood cell count, or low platelet count

• Central nervous system involvement, which may lead to seizures

Diagnosis of SLE

Diagnosis is made by specialist physicians through a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory investigations. Blood tests related to immune system activity, such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment planning.

Treatment

SLE is a chronic disease that requires long-term management. Patients often need to take medication continuously, even during periods when symptoms are minimal or absent. Treatment is tailored to the severity and organ involvement and may include immunosuppressive medications, immunomodulatory agents, or corticosteroids.

Self-Care for Patients with SLE

Patients with SLE are advised to:

• Get adequate rest and sleep

• Manage stress effectively

• Avoid excessive sunlight exposure; wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with an SPF of 55 or higher when outdoors

• Reduce the risk of infection by consuming clean and safe food

• Take prescribed medications strictly as directed by their physician

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