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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex disease process in which the body produces antibodies for other molecular components in the body. This is an abnormal immune response in which the patient is "self-allergic." The antibodies produced by the body's immune system bind to antigens to form a complex. It is the immune complex that gives rise to a myriad of destructive changes in the kidneys, joints, and small blood vessels. A "lupus-like" syndrome has been associated with several drugs (procainamide) and is considered a side effect of the medication. This will resolve slowly when the medication is discontinued. DO NOT STOP MEDICATION without first discussing it with your physician. Common symptoms and findings include: ARTHRITIS, facial rash, muscle aches, weakness, and pleuritic chest pains. Patients may exhibit symptoms of Raynaud's disease with pain and stiffness in the fingers when exposed to cold stimulus. Evaluation will include special serologic tests that are diagnostic for this particular condition, and blood tests (i.e. kidney profile and blood counts). Chest x-ray and urinalysis will also be performed. Treatment is with medications that suppress the immune system. Steroid medications (Prednisone) and (Plaquenil) have proven effective in this capacity. Anti-inflammatory agents (ibuprofen and others) are useful for pain and arthritis. Some chemotherapeutic agents (cancer drugs) have proven effective for the management of more persistent symptoms. SLE is a relapsing and remitting illness that is usually a lifelong ailment. It requires close medical follow-up. There is currently no known cure. A Rheumatologist is the expert in the treatment of this disease.
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