Systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE for short, is one of a number of illnesses known as the autoimmune diseases. Every individual is protected from "invasions" of viruses and bacteria by an immune system—groups of cells in the blood and lymph system that circulate throughout the body and attack anything they recognize as "foreign." Without this defense system no one would live past infancy. In autoimmune disease, this system somehow becomes disordered, and an individual’s immune system begins to attack his or her own tissues.

In SLE, the abnormal antibodies are made by the immune system. These so-called auto-antibodies may combine and form immune complexes, a kind of debris. This debris can cause irritation and inflammation in various places in the body.

SLE has been called the "the great imitator" because the symptoms it presents can suggest a variety of other diseases. The word "systemic" in "systemic lupus erythematosus" means that a person’s whole body can become involved.

Most patients experience swelling and pain in the joints, just as in rheumatoid arthritis. Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever and chills, and headache. A skin rash is very common in SLE. Some patients may lose their hair temporarily; it will usually grow back. Internal organs, including the kidneys, may be involved. Rarely, the brain or spinal cord is attacked. When this happens, an individual may suffer epileptic seizures or personality changes. Such cases, fortunately, are very infrequent.

Excepts were copied from "Are you Aware of Lupus" brochure originally written for the Bay Area Lupus Foundation by Dan Lechay, editorial assistant for Dr. Normal Talal. The content was revised in January, 1999, by Drs. Tom Bush and Michael Ward.

(This website also has other frequently asked questions (FAQ's) about lupus and other related diseases and medical conditions.)