What is active SLE?
What is active SLE?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is the most common type of lupus. SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs. It can affect the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.
What is lupus Pubmed?
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a wide range of clinical presentations resulting from its effect on multiple organ systems. There are four main types of lupus: neonatal, discoid, drug-induced, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the type that affects the majority of patients.
What does it mean when lupus is active?
When a lupus flare occurs, many people will notice a return of the symptoms they have experienced before. However, some people may also develop new symptoms. Active disease is caused by inflammation in an organ (such as the kidneys) or organ system (such as the digestive system).
Does lupus get worse as you get older?
With age, symptom activity with lupus often declines, but symptoms you already have may grow more severe. The accumulation of damage over years may result in the need for joint replacements or other treatments.
How does systemic lupus erythematosus ( SLE ) affect the body?
SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs. It can affect the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.
Is there a difference between skin lupus and systemic lupus?
Other types of lupus include the following: Cutaneous lupus (skin lupus) is lupus that affects the skin in the form of a rash or lesions. This type of lupus can occur on any part of the body, but usually appears where the skin is exposed to sunlight. Drug-induced lupus is similar to SLE,…
Are there any autoantibodies for systemic lupus erythematosus?
Some of the autoantibodies, such as anti–double-stranded DNA and anti-Smith, are very specific for systemic lupus erythematosus. Others, including anti-RNP, anti-Rh o and anti-La, are also present in other autoimmune diseases. Whether the B cells themselves are intrinsically abnormal is a subject of current research.
How are immunosuppressive drugs used to treat systemic lupus?
As a result, physicians are now less reluctant to turn to immunosuppressive drugs such azathioprine (Imuran) or cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan). Treatment for active systemic lupus erythematosus differs, depending on the organ systems involved and disease severity. Current treatment often includes a combination of drugs.