Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

          Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces antibodies to cells within the body leading to widespread inflammation and tissue damage. The causes of SLE are unknown but are believed to be linked to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

          SLE may be characterized by periods of illness and remissions. SLE has a variety of clinical manifestations and can affect joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels. People with SLE may experience fatigue, pain or swelling in joints, skin rashes, and fevers.          

          SLE predominately affects women between the ages of 15 and 40 and blacks more than whites.

          A team approach in treating lupus if often warranted due to the number of organ systems involved. (see image: Body systems potentially affected by Lupus

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