Mok & Lau (2003) explain the pathophysiology as Defective immune regulatory mechanisms, such as the clearance of apoptotic cells and immune complexes, are important contributors to the development of SLE. The loss of immune tolerance, increased antigenic load, excess T cell help, defective B cell suppression, and the shifting of T helper 1 (Th1) to Th2 immune responses leads to B cell hyperactivity and the production of pathogenic autoantibodies. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic autoimmune disease characterized by the production of antibodies to components of the cell nucleus in association with a diverse array of clinical manifestations. …show more content…
To be diagnosed with SLE you must have four out of the eleven common signs. “Nearly all people with lupus have a positive test for antinuclear antibody (ANA). However, having a positive ANA alone does not mean you have lupus” (“Systemic lupus erythematosus,” 2016). There isn’t a particular test give to find out if you have SLE. Your doctor will perform several laboratory tests including blood and urine and biopsies of your skin and kidney. Your doctor might also recommend that you go and see a specialist that specialized in Systemic Lupus Erythematous. There are also support groups and counseling available for people who are diagnosed with SLE to help you deal with the emotional issues and stress involved with