Introduction
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. As with most autoimmune diseases, SLE affects the entire body. Inflammation is the primary symptom that leads to visual signs. Patients often present with a butterfly shaped rash across the face, but may also experience joint pain, fatigue, anemia and headache, to name a few signs.
Though in some cases, patients go undiagnosed, the Lupus Foundation of America states there are roughly 2 million diagnosed cases, within the US. Worldwide, millions more are affected. SLE can affect anyone, however women are most often diagnosed. Age, race, gender and possibly genetics may play a role in who may develop the disease.
Systemic …show more content…
Patients can also present with unexplained photosensitivity that can lead to new rashes and pain. Circulation is also poor in most patients as they will have cold and tingling fingers, hands, feet and toes. SLE patients can also become anemic due to the body’s inability to absorb necessary vitamins and nutrients. A loss of appetite and consequential weight loss are also common signs.
Diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus begins with a patient and family history. Though the path is unclear, studies show that SLE runs in the family line. A physical examination of the joints and skin are next. A physician will also check the lungs and heart for signs of SLE. Questions with regards to any new vision problems, personality changes, tingling or numbness, or seizure will also …show more content…
A combination of positive test results are needed to confirm systemic lupus erythematosus. The America College of Rheumatology created a list of “Eleven Criteria of Lupus” for reference in diagnosing SLE. A confirmed diagnosis requires evidence of at least four of the eleven listed signs, symptoms and/or test results.
Unfortunately there is no absolute known cause of SLE. There are some studies that suggest genetics may play a role, however no pattern of transmission has been found. There are also studies that show a link between drug use and systemic lupus erythematosus. The risk is higher for those with predisposing factors. Many factors play a role in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus. Statically SLE is more common in women than men. Roughly 90% of diagnosed SLE patients are females. Age also plays a role in SLE patients. Symptoms can develop between the ages of roughly 15-40, but most commonly at the beginning of childbearing ages, or reproductive maturity. Race is another factor that can determine the chances of SLE development. African American, Native Americans, Latinos, Asians and Hispanics are between 2 and 3 times more likely to develop SLE than Caucasians. These are the most common risk factors however many more are being discovered with every passing
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. As with most autoimmune diseases, SLE affects the entire body. Inflammation is the primary symptom that leads to visual signs. Patients often present with a butterfly shaped rash across the face, but may also experience joint pain, fatigue, anemia and headache, to name a few signs.
Though in some cases, patients go undiagnosed, the Lupus Foundation of America states there are roughly 2 million diagnosed cases, within the US. Worldwide, millions more are affected. SLE can affect anyone, however women are most often diagnosed. Age, race, gender and possibly genetics may play a role in who may develop the disease.
Systemic …show more content…
Patients can also present with unexplained photosensitivity that can lead to new rashes and pain. Circulation is also poor in most patients as they will have cold and tingling fingers, hands, feet and toes. SLE patients can also become anemic due to the body’s inability to absorb necessary vitamins and nutrients. A loss of appetite and consequential weight loss are also common signs.
Diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus begins with a patient and family history. Though the path is unclear, studies show that SLE runs in the family line. A physical examination of the joints and skin are next. A physician will also check the lungs and heart for signs of SLE. Questions with regards to any new vision problems, personality changes, tingling or numbness, or seizure will also …show more content…
A combination of positive test results are needed to confirm systemic lupus erythematosus. The America College of Rheumatology created a list of “Eleven Criteria of Lupus” for reference in diagnosing SLE. A confirmed diagnosis requires evidence of at least four of the eleven listed signs, symptoms and/or test results.
Unfortunately there is no absolute known cause of SLE. There are some studies that suggest genetics may play a role, however no pattern of transmission has been found. There are also studies that show a link between drug use and systemic lupus erythematosus. The risk is higher for those with predisposing factors. Many factors play a role in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus. Statically SLE is more common in women than men. Roughly 90% of diagnosed SLE patients are females. Age also plays a role in SLE patients. Symptoms can develop between the ages of roughly 15-40, but most commonly at the beginning of childbearing ages, or reproductive maturity. Race is another factor that can determine the chances of SLE development. African American, Native Americans, Latinos, Asians and Hispanics are between 2 and 3 times more likely to develop SLE than Caucasians. These are the most common risk factors however many more are being discovered with every passing