Lupus (SLE)

Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE) is an autoimmune disorder and one of the connective tissue diseases. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body; the symptoms are very diverse.

Overview

Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE) is an autoimmune disorder and one of the connective tissue diseases. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body; the symptoms are very diverse. Increased sensitivity to UV light, painful joints and skin problems are typical. The disorder is treated with anti-inflammatory medication.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

  • General symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss
  • Painful joints, sore muscles
  • Skin is very sensitive to UV light
  • Butterfly rash on the cheeks and nose

Other symptoms

Causes and treatment

Causes

  • The exact cause is not known
  • Autoimmune disorder
  • Family history is a factor

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Careful examination of the whole body
  • Blood test (inflammatory markers, disease-specific changes to blood)
  • Removal of tissue samples (e.g. kidneys, skin)
Possible therapies
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs

What can I do myself?

  • Avoid long exposure to UV light

When to see a doctor?

  • Persistent joint pains
  • Rash that appears after exposure to sunlight
  • Persistent fever and fatigue
  • Involuntary weight loss
  • Butterfly rash on the face

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.