Lupus: Frequently Asked Questions

Lupus is an auto immune disease which means that the body'simmune system attacks its own tissue. The result of theseattacks is chronic inflammation and although the severity ofLupus can vary greatly, it can ultimately be a fatal disease.Lupus is a condition where the immune system creates antibodies, which circulate in the blood stream and attack varioustissues and organs in the body. Some times only the tissue ofthe skin is affected but in other cases the internal organsbecome targeted. Cases where only skin tissue is affected iscalled discoid lupus, but the more pervasive and serious form isreferred to as systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE for short.SLE commonly attacks the heart, lungs, kidneys, joints andnervous system. What causes Lupus?Like all auto immune diseases, little is known about the causesand triggers of Lupus. Experts tend to agree that family historyis a contributing factor although this is an acceptedcharacteristic present in all auto immune diseases rather than aspecific trait of lupus. One area of particular interest forresearchers lies in "drug induced lupus" which is exploredfurther at http://www.lupus247.com. Some drugs are known tostimulate the immune system and thus trigger systemic lupuserythematosus or SLE. These drugs include:-hydralazine (which is used to treat high blood pressure)-quinidine and procainamide (which are both used for regulatingheart beat)-phentoin (which is used to control epilepsy)-isoniazide (which is used to treat tuberculosis)-penicillamine (which is used to treat arthritis)Because the cause of drug induced lupus is known, these casescan usually be treated successfully by discontinuing the use ofmedication.What are the symptoms of Lupus?The most recognizable symptom if lupus is the "butterfly" rashthat occurs predominately in cases of discoid lupus. The rash isred and often appears on the nose and cheeks. Apart from thepossibility of some scarring and possible hair loss, the rash isnot very serious.Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a more complex form oflupus and because many different organs can be involved, avariety of symptoms can present. Like many auto immune disordersfatigue and muscle aches can occur but the propensity forinfection and bleeding is a serious danger. Organ damage andorgan failure are major causes for concern and there is anincreased occurrence of other auto immune disease such asarthritis. You can get more information by visitinghttp://www.lupuspage.com.