What is Lupus :

Lupus also known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues and organs. This can lead to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body.

Key Features Of Lupus :

1 - Cause :

• The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.
• Triggers may include infections, sunlight exposure, or stress.

2 - Who is Affected ?

• More common in women, especially during childbearing years (ages 15 - 45).
• Higher prevalence in people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent.

3 - Symptoms :

Lupus symptoms are vary widely and may come and go (flare-ups and remission) :

• Fatigue (one of the most common symptoms).
  
• Joint pain and swelling (arthritis-like symptoms).
• Skin rash, especially the "butterfly-shaped" rash on the cheeks and nose.
  
• Hair loss (alopecia).
• Fever and sensitivity to sunlight (photo-sensitivity).
• Chest pain (from inflammation in the heart or lungs).
• Kidney problems (lupus nephritis).
• Cognitive issues (memory problems or confusion).

4 - Organs Affected :

Lupus can impact virtually any organ, including :

• Skin
• Joints
• Kidneys
• Heart and blood vessels.
• Lungs
• Brain and nervous system

Diagnosis :

There is no single test for lupus. Diagnosis often involves :

• Blood tests : ANA (antinuclear antibody) test, complete blood count, kidney and liver tests.
• Urine tests : To check for kidney involvement.
• Imaging tests : X-rays or echocardiograms for organ damage.
• Biopsy : Sometimes a kidney or skin biopsy is performed.

Treatment :

While there's no cure, lupus can be managed with treatments to control managed with treatments to control symptoms and prevent organ damage :

Medications :

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) : For joint pain and fever.
• Corticosteroids : To reduce inflammation.
• Antimalarials (eg : hydroxychloroquine) : To control skin and joint symptoms.
• Immunosuppressants : For severe cases
• Biologics (eg : belimumab) : To target specific parts of the immune system.

Lifestyle Changes :

• Regular exercise and a healthy diet.
• Stress management.
• Avoiding triggers like sunlight (use sunscreen and protective clothing).

Prognosis :

With proper management, many people with lupus can lead relatively normal lives.

However, severe cases may lead to life-threatening complications if organs like the kidneys or heart are significantly affected.