Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

A chronic autoimmune disease, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a type of lupus where a person's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues and organs. Affecting multiple systems, SLE may impact the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. In general, lupus commonly refers to several types of autoimmune disease sincluding Systemic Lupus and Cutaneous (skin) Lupus. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus can be the more serious type of lupus. The exact cause of SLE is unknown; however it is believed that several factors may contribute including genetics, hormones, environmental factors, and a dysfunctional immune system.

---

What are the Symptoms related to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

Symptoms involved with diagnosing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) may vary individually, ranging from very mild to extremely severe. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Joint pain and swelling
• Skin rashes (a common lupue rash is the "butterfly-shaped" on the cheeks or nose)
• Photosensitivity (also known as a sun allergy where an abnormal reaction to sunlight may cause the skin to burn, itch, blister and/or peel)
• Hair loss
• Mouth sores
• Chest pain (resulting from inflammation of organs in the chest)
• Kidney function (resulting from inflammation of the kidneys, which may lead to nephritis)
• Neurological episodes (including frequent headaches, seizures, or mood swings)

Diagnosing SLE maybe challenging for your healthcare professionals as these common symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus are similar to various other conditions. In an effort to diagnosis SLE, your doctor may order blood tests to detect autoantibodies commonly attributed to a lupus diagnosis, for example ANA testing (antinuclear antibody testing). However, a positive ANA test is non-specific and the majority of people with a positive ANA do not have lupus. Clinical examinations to assess rashes and joints, along with X-rays, kidney function, and joint imaging may be a part of the diagnostic process based upon the described symptoms. It is important to fully share what you are experiencing with your doctor to assist with either diagnosing SLE or ruling out Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

---

What are the SLE Treatment Options?

Currently, there is not a known cure for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Because of this, your doctor will focus on managing symptoms, preventing flare ups, and prepare orders to minimize and/or stop organ damage for SLE treatment. Common SLE treatment strategies include:

• NSAIDs - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - to assist with pain and inflammation
• DMARDs - disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs - may be considered for managing and controlling skin rashes and joint pain
• Corticosteroids - to assist in managing and reducing inflammation during flare-ups (commonly prescribed is prednisone)
• Immunosuppressive drugs - may be considered for severe SLE or organ involvement, which suppresses abnormal activity of the immune system
• Biologic therapies - may be considered for patients with active or recurring SLE (administered via IV, slow drip, or self-administered shots)

---

Living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Many patients ask, “How can I live a normal life with SLE?”. While the answers vary based on progression and lifestyle, you can improve your quality of life by understanding your SLE symptoms, managing triggers, and controlling your disease activity with medications. In working with your physician and following your treatment plan, you can manage your symptoms daily. In managing your symptoms, you can improve the quality of everyday life and overall wellbeing.

---