Lupus, or SLE is an auto immune disease that can affect a variety of body locations and is a cause of arthritis.
Some who are affected develop a rash in the form of a butterfly.
This morning Dr. Vijay joined us to tell us more about this disease.
Lupus, or Systemic Lupus Erythematosis is an autoimmune disease that can affect a variety of body locations and is a cause of arthritis. It often causes a malar rash in the form of a butterfly. The cause is an immune system that is not appropriately regulated and results in destroying tissues in various parts of the body resulting in the damage that can be seen in joints, the kidneys, heart, lungs and even the brain. Even though relatives of people with SLE are known to have a higher incidence of the disease, specific genetic markers have not been located yet. Many people have specific triggers that will result in a flare and a very common cause is exposure to UV light. There is no known cure yet although there are medications that manage the problem very well.