what is lupus disease

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy organs and tissues in the body. This causes inflammation and can lead to damage in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. The most common form is called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which affects multiple organs and systems. Lupus symptoms vary widely and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include joint pain and swelling, fatigue, fever, skin rashes (especially a distinctive butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose), hair loss, mouth sores, and sensitivity to sunlight. The disease is characterized by periods of flare-ups, where symptoms worsen, and remission, when symptoms improve or disappear temporarily. Lupus affects about 3.5 to 5 million people worldwide and is much more common in women than men—about nine times more often—typically emerging during childbearing years. It disproportionately affects certain ethnic groups such as African Americans, Latin Americans, Asian Americans, and Native Americans with often more severe disease presentations. The exact cause of lupus is not fully understood but is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. There is currently no cure for lupus, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Overall, lupus is a complex disease that requires careful management to prevent organ damage and maintain quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for better outcomes. This summary synthesizes information on lupus as an autoimmune, systemic, and chronic condition that can have diverse and serious impacts on health. The variability of symptoms and severity among individuals makes it a challenging disease to treat.