Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus)
Related:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which tissue in every organ of the body—such as the brain, lungs, blood, and skin—becomes inflamed. Symptoms often get worse (flare-up) and then improve (go into remission).
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For Medical ProfessionalsThe exact cause of SLE is unknown, although it is linked to a combination of factors such as environment, hormones and a genetic predisposition to having an overactive immune system.
Common signs and symptoms related to SLE are:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Swelling
- Hair loss
- Joint pain
- Butterfly rash (red rash on the cheeks and nose)
- Weight loss
- Sores in the mouth or nose
- Seizures
To determine if your child has SLE, your specialized doctor will start with a thorough physical exam and ask about your child’s symptoms. If your child has at least four physical symptoms and/or blood test abnormalities, they will likely be diagnosed with SLE.
There is no cure for lupus. Therefore, the goal for treatment is to control inflammation.
Possible non-surgical treatments your doctor may offer or recommend to treat your child’s scleroderma include:
- Immunosuppressive medication
- Corticosteroid medication
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
