lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body, including skin, joints, and organs. in lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues and organs, causing inflammation and tissue damage. the condition is characterized by periods of illness, known as flares, and periods of remission.
the most common type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (sle), which affects multiple body systems. other types include discoid lupus, which primarily affects the skin, and drug-induced lupus, caused by certain prescription medications.
symptoms of lupus vary widely and can include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, skin lesions that worsen with sun exposure, shortness of breath, chest pain, dry eyes, headaches, and confusion.
the exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.
diagnosing lupus can be challenging and usually involves a combination of physical examinations, lab tests, and a review of the patient's medical history.
treatment focuses on symptom management and typically includes anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, and immunosuppressants.
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