Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that commonly causes inflammation in various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, and major organs such as the brain, kidneys, heart, and lungs.

“Butterfly” facial rash covering cheeks and nose and other rashes on the body

Fatigue

Pain, stiffness, and swelling of joints

Sensitivity to sunlight

Fever

Fingers and toes turning white or blue when stressed or exposed to the cold

Shortness of breath and chest pain

Headaches and confusion

Hair loss

Learn more about the different types of lupus:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): When people refer to lupus, they are typically referring to this type. SLE may affect the skin, joints, brain, kidneys, and other organs. Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe complication of SLE that occurs when the kidneys are affected. SLE makes up 70% of patients with lupus, making it the most common form.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: This type of lupus impacts the skin, resulting in rashes and lesions.

Drug-induced lupus: This form of lupus is triggered by certain prescription medications. The symptoms of drug-induced lupus are similar to those of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and typically resolve within six months of discontinuing the medication that triggered the condition.

Neonatal lupus: This is a rare type of lupus that affects infants of women with lupus. Infants with neonatal lupus typically outgrow symptoms after around six months of age.

For individuals showing signs and symptoms that are consistent with lupus, doctors may use a combination of the following methods to confirm a diagnosis:

Medical history: Doctors may review medical history and documentation of symptoms.

Family history: Doctors may discuss if there is a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases.

Complete physical exam: Doctors will look for rashes or other signs and symptoms of lupus.

Urine tests: Doctors conduct urine tests to evaluate kidneys and detect any potential issues.

Blood tests: These tests can detect signs of inflammation and see how the immune system is functioning. Examples of blood tests include a complete blood count, antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, blood clotting time tests, and complement tests.

Biopsies: Doctors may perform a biopsy to detect inflammation, damage, and other signs of an autoimmune disease.

There is no cure for lupus, so treatment is focused on mitigating and improving symptoms. Commonly, patients see a rheumatologist for their lupus-related care. Treatments aim to:

Limit flares
Treat symptoms
Reduce organ damage and inflammation

Medications

Common medications to help treat symptoms of lupus include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs can help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. They are typically reserved for severe cases of lupus or when other treatments have not been effective.

Antimalarial drugs: Antimalarial drugs can help reduce pain, inflammation, rashes, and flares.

Biologics: Biologics may alleviate symptoms by helping the immune system work properly.

Additional medications might be necessary to address complications associated with lupus, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, osteoporosis, blood clots, etc.

Kidney Transplant

Individuals with lupus nephritis, a condition where lupus affects the kidneys, may require a kidney transplant if inflammation is severe and medications are unable to prevent significant kidney damage.

Complications of Lupus

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Lupus may cause the development of complications and health risks in the following parts of the body:

Kidneys: Lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation) is one of the most common complications of lupus that can result in kidney damage and failure.

Heart: Lupus may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.

Blood: Complications involving blood in lupus include anemia (low red blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). There is also an increased risk of blood clotting.

Lungs: Complications involving the lungs includes inflammation of the chest cavity lining, bleeding in the lungs, and pneumonia.

Brain and Central Nervous System: Complications involving the brain and central nervous system in lupus may include behavior changes, strokes, seizures, vision problems, and memory problems.

Ongoing Research

Lupus is a disease that requires more effective treatment options. To find these new treatments for lupus, further research is necessary.

Current Research Studies

There are over 250 clinical trials actively recruiting participants with lupus. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find epilepsy research studies near you.

Featured Study

SPOTLIGHT | IgAN, LN, or C3G Study

Receive personalized treatment care for your IgA Nephropathy (IgAN), Lupus Nephritis (LN), or C3 Glomerulopathy (C3G), in the SPOTLIGHT Study

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Resources

Find an online community of fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates below
as well as some other general resources!

Lupus Warriors

A support group for those diagnosed with lupus to find emotional support, information, answers to questions, and relationships with others.

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Lupus Support Group

A group where people with lupus can ask questions, obtain information, and give and receive support.

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Lupus Awareness

A support group for those living with lupus to share experiences and gain support.

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Reddit Group: r/Lupus

A Reddit community for those living with lupus to connect with others and share experiences.

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World Lupus Federation

The World Lupus Federation supports the mission of other lupus groups worldwide to help improve the lives of those affected by lupus.

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Lupus Research Alliance

The Lupus Research Alliance is an organization dedicated to funding research and ultimately finding a cure for lupus.

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Lupus Foundation of America

The Lupus Foundation of America is an organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus through research, support, education, and advocacy programs.

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Looms for Lupus

Looms for Lupus is a non-profit organization that provides mental health awareness, advocacy, and support to those affected by lupus.

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Lupus: The Expert Series

Tune in to this educational podcast featuring lupus experts discussing important topics and sharing valuable insights.

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More Than Lupus | Blog

Check out the blogs on the More Than Lupus website to learn more about lupus and gain insights from individuals sharing their personal experiences with the condition.

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