What is Lupus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder, which means the immune system attacks the body, possibly including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, kidneys, brain and blood vessels. Because of this, there is a wide range of symptoms, but some of the symptoms are:

  • Painful joints, stiffer in the morning
  • A persistent butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
  • Blue or white fingertips in the cold
  • Chest pain with deep breathing

Lupus occurs predominantly in women, but men can get lupus, too. There is no cure, but effective treatment is available.

Patient Brochures (written by Dr. Katz)

Learning About Lupus
I Have a Positive Antinuclear Antibody Test… What Does That Mean?
Joint and Muscle Pain in Systemic Lupus
Steroids in the Treatment of Lupus
Immune Suppressants and Related Drugs Used for Lupus

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