What is lupus?
Published April 16, 2024 | 
( 1997 )
-What is lupus? What are its symptoms?-
Lupus erythematosis belongs to a group of immunologic rheumatic diseases that has also been called collagen or connective tissue diseases. They result from alterations to the immune system. Lupus is a chronic disease characterized by periods of intermittent manifestations. Its exact cause is unknown. It typically involves the lining of the joints (synovium) as well as the skin, lining of the chest cavity (pleura) and tiny blood vessels. It is most common in women, especially between the ages of 15 to 30 years.
The symptoms depend upon the activity of the disease and which organ systems are predominantly involved. They include joint pain and inflammation, skin rashes, especially on the cheeks, sun sensitivity that may lead to flares after excessive sun exposure, color changes of the extremities on exposure to cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon), and pleurisy.