Essay On Lupus Erythematosus

Lupus Erythematosus is an auto immune disease which means that the immune system makes antibodies that attack the healthy tissue. This leads to skin problems such as sores and rashes. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is only relating to problems with skin. However, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus involves the destruction of vital organs along with skin complications. This disease cannot be cured, but it can be treated. Many people who have Lupus suffer through “flares” which are times in which the symptoms worsen for a period of time then stops for some time. People with Lupus suffer from joint pain, extreme fatigue, Rashes, fevers, and headaches. The fevers happen because it is a defense mechanism for the immune system to fight against an illness, but it is happening because it is fighting against healthy cells. This disease is genetic, but there are a few genes associated with the disease. There is a correlation between people with the disease and them having certain mutated genes. PTPN22 is a protein coding gene, located on the first chromosome near the end. So over several DNA replications that info will get sniped off, which makes sense why the disease is common between the ages 15-44. A mutation to this gene will either increase or decrease the risk of developing an autoimmune disease. PTPN22 gene deals with T cells which are needed for immune response. There are other genes associated with lupus such as FCGR2B, CTLA4, TLR5, …show more content…
9 out of 10 people with Lupus are Females. If you have Lupus it is best to check in with a Rheumatologist (deals with Arthritis) and Nephrologist (Kidney disorders). These people have joint pain that can lead to Arthritis and Kidney problems because of the immune system attack “healthy” tissue. You should wear protective clothing and sunscreen to reduce flare ups. Even though it is not curable you can still maintain it so that you do not have to go through the