It’s world lupus day on 10th May 2023

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system malfunctions and erroneously recognizes the body's own tissues as foreign invaders. People with lupus produce autoantibodies that target the body's tissues, forming immune complexes that can cause inflammation and harm, potentially affecting the organs and/or joints of some lupus patients. Lupus has a disproportionate impact on females and individuals of Black African, Caribbean, and Asian heritage. (Lupus UK, n.d.).

There are two primary types of lupus:

Discoid lupus Systemic & lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Discoid lupus affects only the skin, resulting in rashes. It can be limited to a small area on the skin or be widespread.

SLE can impact many parts of the body in various ways, ranging from mild to severe. Although there is no cure, early treatment can aid in controlling symptoms. (Nhsinform.scot, 2023).

Lupus is a rare, intricate, and inadequately comprehended illness. Consequently, many healthcare practitioners, such as General Practitioners, may not detect the initial indications, resulting in a delay in referral and diagnosis. Throughout this period, active lupus may inflict irreversible harm to the kidneys, skin, heart, lungs, and/or brain. (Lupus UK, n.d.).

Did you know?

“The word “lupus” is the Latin word for wolf. A severe facial rash, rarely seen now, called lupus vulgaris was once thought to resemble a wolf’s bite hence the name lupus.”

— (Lupus UK, n.d.)

Signs and symptoms of Lupus

The most prevalent lupus symptoms include joint/muscle aches and pains, as well as extreme fatigue - nearly 90% of lupus patients report feeling fatigued, which can considerably impair their quality of life and ability to work. Additional symptoms may comprise rashes, anaemia, light sensitivity, headaches/migraines, hair loss, oral/nasal ulcers, brain fog, depression, and anxiety. Lupus patients have an increased risk of miscarriage. Nevertheless, with careful monitoring, numerous lupus patients successfully carry out pregnancies. It is crucial to acknowledge that lupus has several manifestations, and it is uncommon for two people to experience precisely the same symptoms. (lupus UK, n.d.).

Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, can be challenging to diagnose due to its resemblance to other ailments.

Symptoms entail inflammation of various body parts, including the lungs, heart, liver, joints, and kidneys.

Typically, a GP will conduct blood tests. If elevated levels of a specific antibody are accompanied by characteristic symptoms, lupus is probable.

If a doctor suspects potential organ involvement, you may be referred for X-rays and scans of your heart, kidneys, and other organs.

After a lupus diagnosis, you will be advised to undergo regular check-ups and testing, such as routine blood tests to monitor anaemia and urine tests to screen for kidney problems. (NHS, 2019).

Lupus symptoms frequently intensify and become more severe for a few weeks, occasionally lasting longer, during a flare-up (relapse).

Subsequently, symptoms subside (remission). The cause of symptom flare-ups or remissions remains unknown.

Certain individuals may not observe any variations and experience constant symptoms. (NHS, 2019).

Around 90% of all lupus sufferers are female.

Although not yet fully comprehended, there are several general hypotheses. Many genes that regulate the immune system are situated on the X chromosome. As females have two X chromosomes compared to men's one, they are more susceptible to acquiring gene mutations that cause immune system abnormalities. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations are recognised as significant triggers. Lupus frequently arises after puberty, following childbirth, during menopause, and generally occurs in women aged between 15 to 55. (lupus UK n.d.).

Links to relevant sites and further information

Have a look at the Lupus UK website for news about the amazing work they do and what you can do to help. Their website also contains a wealth of information on all things Lupus.

https://www.lupusuk.org.uk/

Another great resource for information is the patient information site, which can be found here -

https://patient.info/skin-conditions/skin-rashes/lupus-systemic-lupus-erythematosus