Systemic lupus erythematosus, referred to as SLE or lupus, is a chronic disease with inflammation in many organs. Lupus flares vary from mild to serious. Patients can have times when the disease is active, followed by times when the disease is less active, referred to remission. Better treatments have improved quality and length of life.
SLE/Lupus is a complex disease with many symptoms. Patients may have arthritis, rashes, mouth ulcers, inflammation in the lungs or heart, kidney damage and/or abnormal blood tests. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss, blood clots, hair loss and poor circulation to the fingers and toes.
In SLE/lupus the immune system, which usually protects the body, misfires and attacks itself by a process called autoimmunity. This leads to inflammation in many parts of the body. There are many factors that increase the chances of getting SLE/lupus including genetics and environmental factors.
For more information on SLE/Lupus download the patient information sheet