Can you tell me something about a condition called SLE?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain and other organs. An autoimmune disease is one in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to long-term (chronic) inflammation. The underlying cause of many autoimmune diseases including SLE is not fully known. The condition is more common in women than men. And while it may occur at any age, it tends to develop most often in those aged 10-50 years. In some cases SLE may be caused by certain types of drugs. Typically SLE involves periods of illness or flare ups, followed by periods of remission.
What kind of symptoms can SLE cause?
Symptoms associated with SLE vary from person to person. Many people affected by SLE develop swelling and pain in their joints. Some will go on to develop arthritis. Joints most frequently affected are those in the fingers, hands, wrists and knees. Other common symptoms can include chest pain when taking a deep breath, fatigue and a fever with no other cause. General discomfort, uneasiness or malaise may also be experienced. Hair loss, mouth sores and sensitivity to sunlight are all common symptoms of the condition. A skin rash – typically a “butterfly” shape over the cheeks and bridge of the nose – affects about half of people with SLE. The rash may be widespread and tends to get worse in sunlight. There may also be swelling of the lymph nodes.
Other symptoms may develop depending on what part of the body is affected and may include: headaches, numbness, tingling, seizures and vision problems. Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting can be experienced, as may abnormal heart rhythms and lung problems. Skin problems and Raynaud’s phenomenon (where the fingers change colour when cold) may also occur.
Is there a cure for SLE?
Unfortunately there is no cure for SLE, so the goal of treatment is to control symptoms. Mild cases of SLE may be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), corticosteroid creams or an anti-malaria drug along with low-dose corticosteroids for skin and arthritis symptoms. Severe symptoms often require more aggressive treatment. Psychological therapy and support groups may help relieve depression and mood changes that occur in some people with this condition.
