Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Skin Manifestations & Symptoms

According to the Mayo Clinic, systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease, and one of four types of lupus. The disease forces the body to turn on itself, potentially causing complications throughout the entire body.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of lupus may include hair loss, dry eyes, sores in the mouth, fatigue, joint pain, rashes and skin lesions.

Diagnosis

• Lupus is tricky to diagnose, says the Mayo Clinic. Blood and urine tests, along with a patient's symptoms, are the key factors in diagnosing lupus.

Treatment

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, anti-malaria medication or corticosteroids may alleviate some of the symptoms associated with lupus. New drugs are also being studied.

Risk Factors

• According to the Mayo Clinic, lupus occurs more often in women and people of Asian or African-American descent, but age plays no factor in lupus.

Complications

• Lupus can cause complications such as infections and miscarriage, and increases a patient's chances of developing cancer, kidney failure, and lung heart problems.