Alternative Names
Discoid lupus; SLE; Subacute cutaneous lupus; Systemic lupus erythematosus; neonatal lupus; drug-induced lupus
Symptoms & Characteristics
Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues by mistake causing joint, skin, blood vessels and organ damage. There are different kinds of lupus. Some types include:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common type and affects various parts of the body. SLE is what most people refer to as "lupus."
- Discoid lupus causes a persistent and scarring rash, particularly on the face, neck and scalp. In some cases, discoid lupus evolves into SLE.
- Neonatal lupus is very rare and affects newborns.
- Drug-induced lupus occurs after the use of certain medications. The symptoms may be similar to SLE.
Some common symptoms may include:
- red rashes, typically occurring on the face (commonly called the "butterfly rash")
Diagnosing lupus is difficult and may take a long time. This is because there is no one test for lupus.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for lupus. Medications and certain lifestyle changes may help to control some symptoms.
Women with lupus, primarily SLE, may be at increased risk for certain pregnancy complications. It is always important to speak with a doctor regarding the appropriate care and management of lupus before and during pregnancy.
If someone notices or experiences any of the signs or symptoms common to lupus, it is important to see a doctor.
How Common Is It?
About 1.5 million Americans are affected with lupus.
- More women than men are affected with lupus.
- Lupus is more common in women of African American, Hispanic, Asian and Native American ancestry.
Genetics & Inheritance
The causes of lupus are largely unknown. Lupus is most likely a multifactorial condition, which means it involves a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
It is currently well established that lupus also runs in some families. Researchers believe that there are probably a number of genes that affect the development and symptoms of lupus.
- Variations in over 15 genes have been identified in some families, but no one gene has been strongly associated to lupus.
- Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are small variations in a single "letter" of DNA that can be found throughout our entire genetic make-up. Some researchers have proposed that specific SNPs may influence the risk to develop lupus in some people. How these SNPs contribute to lupus is unclear and little is known about their influences at this point. Research is currently often limited to specific ethnic groups. Further research is needed to replicate study findings across different ethnic groups and clearly establish associations.
- Other yet to be identified or adequately classified genes may also contribute to lupus.
Genetic Testing
Clinical genetic testing for lupus susceptibility is unavailable.
Informational genetic testing for lupus susceptibility is available online (over the internet). Go to the Tests tab to link to the best providers, compare providers and read provider reviews.
- Some providers offer whole genome scanning, which may include testing for some of the SNPs that have been proposed to influence susceptibility to lupus. At this point, many genetic professionals do not consider this testing clinically useful or medically relevant, but for informational purposes only.
A genetic consultation with a trained genetic professional may be beneficial in discussing the benefits and limitations of genetic testing as well as recurrence risk. Use our find a genetic professional directory to locate a trained genetic professional in your area.
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