Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 710.0      ICD10: M32.10      ICD11: 4A40

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), often referred to simply as Lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many different organs in the body.
Let's break that down:

Systemic: This means the disease can affect many different systems or organs in the body. Unlike localized lupus (e.g., discoid lupus only affects the skin), SLE can impact joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.
Lupus Erythematosus: "Lupus" is Latin for "wolf," a reference to the classical facial rash that can resemble wolf bites. "Erythematosus" means redness or inflammation.
Autoimmune Disease: This is the key characteristic. In SLE, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues and organs. Normally, the immune system defends against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses. In SLE, it gets confused and produces antibodies (proteins) that target healthy cells and tissues. These antibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Key Characteristics of SLE:

Unpredictable Course: SLE is characterized by periods of flares (when symptoms worsen) and remissions (when symptoms improve or disappear). The course of the disease varies greatly from person to person.
Wide Range of Symptoms: Because SLE can affect so many different organs, the symptoms are diverse and can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue: Persistent and overwhelming tiredness.
Joint Pain and Stiffness: Often affects small joints in the hands, wrists, and feet.
Skin Rashes: The characteristic "butterfly" rash across the cheeks and nose is well-known, but other rashes can occur. Sensitivity to sunlight is common.
Fever: Unexplained low-grade fever.
Kidney Problems: Can lead to kidney failure if not treated.
Chest Pain: Caused by inflammation of the lining around the lungs or heart.
Headaches, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Seizures: If the brain and nervous system are affected.
Blood Disorders: Anemia (low red blood cell count), low white blood cell count, or low platelet count.
Hair Loss: Hair may become thin and brittle.
Mouth or Nose Sores: Ulcers.
No Cure: Currently, there is no cure for SLE. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing flares, and minimizing organ damage.

Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Risk factors include:

Genetics: SLE tends to run in families, but having a specific gene does not guarantee developing the disease.
Sex: SLE is much more common in women, particularly during childbearing years.
Race/Ethnicity: SLE is more prevalent in African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and Native Americans than in Caucasians.
Environmental Factors: Possible triggers include:
Sunlight: Exposure to ultraviolet light can trigger flares.
Infections: Some infections may play a role.
Certain Medications: Certain drugs can induce lupus-like symptoms.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing SLE can be complex because of the varied symptoms. Doctors rely on a combination of:

Medical History and Physical Exam: Careful assessment of symptoms and risk factors.
Blood Tests: To detect autoantibodies (such as antinuclear antibodies or ANA), check blood cell counts, and assess kidney and liver function.
Urine Tests: To evaluate kidney function.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to assess organ damage.
Biopsy: A tissue sample (e.g., skin or kidney) may be taken for examination.

Treatment:

Treatment for SLE is individualized and depends on the severity of the disease and the organs involved. Common treatments include:

Medications to Reduce Inflammation and Pain:
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): For mild pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone): Potent anti-inflammatory drugs used for flares and more severe symptoms. Long-term use can have side effects.
Antimalarial Drugs (e.g., Hydroxychloroquine): Used to treat skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue. They also have a disease-modifying effect.
Immunosuppressants: To suppress the immune system's activity and prevent it from attacking the body.
Methotrexate
Azathioprine
Mycophenolate mofetil
Cyclophosphamide
Biologic Therapies: Target specific components of the immune system.
Belimumab: Reduces B cell activity.
Rituximab: Depletes B cells.
Anifrolumab-fnia: Type I interferon receptor antagonist
Lifestyle Modifications:
Rest: Getting enough sleep.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce fatigue and joint pain.
Sun Protection: Avoiding prolonged sun exposure and using sunscreen.
Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet.
Stress Management: Finding healthy ways to cope with stress.
Organ-Specific Treatments: Additional treatments may be needed for specific organ involvement (e.g., medications to control blood pressure in people with kidney disease).

Living with SLE:

Living with SLE can be challenging, but many people with the disease can lead full and productive lives with proper management. It's important to:

Work Closely with a Rheumatologist: A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in treating arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
Take Medications as Prescribed: Following the doctor's instructions is crucial.
Monitor Symptoms and Report Changes: Keeping track of symptoms and notifying the doctor of any changes can help with early detection of flares.
Join a Support Group: Connecting with other people with SLE can provide emotional support and practical advice.

This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation.