SLE (Systemic lupus erythematosus) or Lupus is a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues in various systems. It is commonly found in women of reproductive age. The causes include multiple factors, including genetics. Triggering factors are sunlight and infections.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of SLE
According to the EULAR/ACR criteria, the following symptoms are used to diagnose the disease:
- Fever
- Rash
- Hair loss
- Joint pain
- Depression
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Fatigue from anemia
- Abnormal urination
- Swelling due to SLE affecting the kidneys
- Shortness of breath from lung and heart abnormalities
Diagnosis is combined with blood tests, urine tests, and immune tests such as Anti-dsDNA antibody, Complement level, Anticardiolipin antibodies, etc.
What is found in SLE patients with kidney involvement (Lupus nephritis)?
SLE patients have an incidence of detecting red blood cells in the urine or protein in the urine in 50-70% of cases. If these findings are present, lupus nephritis should be suspected. However, lupus nephritis has several types with varying severity and treatment approaches. Kidney biopsy helps in better treatment planning. Treatment of lupus (SLE), a chronic disease, usually requires immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation in the body. The choice of medication varies according to the severity of the disease.
Recommendations for SLE patients
- Avoid sunlight by wearing covering clothing, using umbrellas or hats, and applying sunscreen.
- Be cautious of infections from food and respiratory tract infections, as they can easily trigger disease flare-ups.
- Take medication and follow up on treatment regularly.
- Patients need to use contraception while taking certain medications, so always consult a doctor and pharmacist beforehand.
