Systemic lupus erythematosus Dr Rob Hicks Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), often simply called lupus, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the blood vessels and connective tissues of the skin.

In this article

What causes it? What are the symptoms?

Who's affected? What's the treatment?

Advice and support

SLE is an autoimmune disease where the body turns upon itself, causing the tissues to become inflamed and swollen.

It isn't contagious. The precise cause is unknown, although it may be triggered by hormones, infections, sunlight or stress.

There are many possible symptoms. These may be mild or severe, with flare-ups occurring intermittently.

SLE often begins with a skin rash over the nose and cheeks that is shaped like a butterfly and made worse by exposure to the sun. This may be accompanied by tiredness and joint pains.

Thrombophlebitis, hair loss, painless mouth ulcers, headaches, anaemia, fits, high blood pressure, pleurisy, pericarditis and kidney disease may all occur.

There are an estimated 50,000 people with SLE in the UK. Women are nine times more likely to be affected than men. SLE commonly starts in the teens and 20s.

People of Afro-Caribbean and Asian origin are more likely to develop SLE than Caucasians.

There's no cure for SLE. Anti-inflammatory medication, corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be used to relieve symptoms and control the disease, while physiotherapy can help to relieve joint problems.

Sun exposure should be avoided and infections treated promptly.

Lupus UK

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Email: headoffice@lupusuk.org.uk
Website: www.lupusuk.org.uk

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in September 2006.