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Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells and tissues. Instead of protecting your body, the immune system becomes overactive, leading to inflammation, pain and potential damage to organs like the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain. 

Lupus symptoms can vary widely. Some people may experience mild issues, while others face severe, life-impacting complications. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people with lupus are able to live full and active lives.  

What are the types of lupus?

There are several forms of lupus. Some affect many systems in the body, while others mainly affect the skin.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) 

  • Most common type 
  • Can impact internal organs like the kidneys, lungs, heart and nervous system 
  • Symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, a butterfly-shaped facial rash, fever and sun sensitivity 

Cutaneous lupus (affects the skin only) 

Discoid lupus erythematosus 

  • Red, scaly patches or lesions, often on the scalp, ears and face 
  • Can cause permanent scarring or pigmentation changes 

Subacute cutaneous lupus 

  • Red, ring-shaped or scaly lesions on sun-exposed skin (arms, neck, shoulders) 
  • Often worsens with sun exposure 

Drug-induced lupus 

  • Triggered by certain medications (like antibiotics, anticonvulsants or heart drugs) 
  • Symptoms may mimic SLE but usually go away after stopping the medication 

Neonatal lupus 

  • Rare condition affecting newborns of mothers with lupus 
  • May cause rash, liver issues or heart problems in the baby 

Causes and risk factors for lupus

The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is likely triggered by a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors.

Risk factors for lupus

You may have a higher chance of developing lupus if you: 

  • Are female (90% of lupus patients are women) 
  • Are between the ages of 15 and 45 
  • Are Black, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American or Pacific Islander 
  • Have a family history of lupus or other autoimmune conditions  

Possible lupus triggers

  • Sun exposure: UV rays can activate lupus symptoms or skin flare-ups 
  • Infections: Viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be linked to lupus onset 
  • Medications: Some blood pressure meds, antibiotics and seizure medications can lead to lupus-like symptoms

What are the symptoms of lupus?

Lupus symptoms can be hard to recognize because they often come and go, and they may look like symptoms of other conditions. Many people experience “flares,” where symptoms get worse for a while before improving. No two cases are the same. 

Common signs and symptoms of lupus include: 

  • Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
  • Pain or swelling in the joints
  • Skin rashes, including a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
  • Low-grade fever without infection
  • Chest pain when breathing deeply
  • Hair thinning or hair loss
  • Mouth or nose sores
  • Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles or around the eyes (possible kidney involvement)

Want to know if your symptoms could be lupus? Learn more about lupus symptoms and how it’s diagnosed.

How is lupus diagnosed?

Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic those of other health problems. There is no single test that confirms lupus. Instead, providers look at your health history, physical exam, lab tests and sometimes biopsy results.

Tests and steps used to diagnose lupus may include:

  • Reviewing your symptoms and health history
  • Physical exam to check for joint pain, swelling or rashes
  • Blood tests, such as:
    • Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
    • Complete blood count (CBC)
    • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP)
  • Urine tests to check kidney function
  • Skin or kidney biopsy if organ involvement is suspected

Getting an accurate diagnosis takes time. Explore what lupus symptoms to look for and how it's diagnosed

How is lupus treated? 

There is no cure for lupus, but symptoms can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. Your care team will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

Common lupus treatments include: 

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 
  • Antimalarial medications 
  • Corticosteroids 
  • Immunosuppressive drugs 
  • Biologics 

Lifestyle habits that can help: 

  • Avoid sun exposure 
  • Manage stress 
  • Get enough rest 
  • Eat a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet 
  • Stay up to date with preventive care 

Learn more about lupus treatment and how to live well with lupus. 

Living with lupus 

Lupus is a lifelong condition, but many people manage it successfully. Staying informed, following your treatment plan and working closely with your health care team can help you reduce flares and protect your health over time.