OUGD603 - Research Lead - Research: Lupus

Lupus

Two main types:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
• Cutaneous Lupus including Discoid Lupus

Lupus is NOT contagious

Certaub people born with tendancy towards developing lupus.

No cure but treatments can help control symptoms

All ages/sexes can be affected, but its most common in females, especially of African/Asian ancestry. 

Peak age to develop the disease is between 18 and 45.

Believed 5 million people world have lupus. 

Lupus is a disease in which the Immune system goes 'wrong' and becomes overactive.

Affects any organ of the body.

Symptoms can be diverse - no patient is the same.

Symptoms can include:

• Fatigue
• Rashes
• Allergies
• Depression
• Kidney failure
• Sun sensitivity
• Hair loss
• Joint aches and pains
• Inflammation of tissues covering internal organs

A butterfly has become known as the symbol of Lupus groups. The reason for this is a characteristic with patients is a reddish rash that can appear over their cheeks and nose in a butterfly shape. 

Causes:

An alteration in the Immune system. Normal immune systems produce antibodies to fight against foreign invaders, e.g. bacteria. Lupus cause the immune system to go into overdrive and produce too many. This means the immune system then attacks their own body.