Overview
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or lupus) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. It can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart, lungs and brain.
Lupus tends to come and go in flares. Treatment aims to control symptoms, prevent flares and protect organs.
Watch and learn
Video: “Lupus - Disease Overview” from Johns Hopkins Rheumatology on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
Video: “What Is Lupus?” from Cleveland Clinic on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
Captions: press the CC button in the video player to turn on captions. Some captions are generated automatically by YouTube and may contain errors.
Symptoms
- Joint pain and swelling
- Fatigue and fever
- A rash, including a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Mouth sores, hair loss
- Chest pain when breathing deeply
- Swelling in the legs (may signal kidney involvement)
Causes and risk factors
- Autoimmune, with genetic, hormonal and environmental factors
- More common in women, often ages 15 to 45
- Sunlight, infections and some medicines can trigger flares
How it is diagnosed
- Blood tests: ANA (antinuclear antibody), anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies, complement levels (C3, C4), blood counts, kidney function
- Urine tests to check for protein or blood (kidney involvement)
- Imaging as needed, such as chest X-ray or echocardiogram
Treatment, step by step
Treatment is tailored to you. Medicines are described here in general terms; your rheumatologist will explain the specific options, benefits, risks and monitoring for your situation.
Lifestyle and self-care
Sun protection, rest, regular activity, not smoking and stress management may help.
Disease-modifying medicines (DMARDs and biologics)
Hydroxychloroquine is commonly used for most patients. Other immunosuppressants or biologics may be used depending on organ involvement.
Joint injections and infusions
Some lupus biologics are given by infusion. Infusions are currently given at a partner hospital; in-office infusions at GSMC are planned. Call 732-202-3000 for details.
Referral and team care
Lupus care often involves nephrology, dermatology, cardiology or other specialists.
What to expect at GSMC
- Your first visit: a rheumatologist reviews your symptoms, history and medicines and examines your joints, skin and other areas.
- Tests: blood tests and imaging, as needed, to confirm the diagnosis and check how active the disease is.
- Your plan: we explain your options, including lifestyle steps and medicines, and how each is monitored.
- Follow-up: regular visits and lab checks to adjust treatment over time.
Shahzad Hussain, MD sees rheumatology patients in Brick, Toms River and Whiting. Call 732-202-3000 to schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Is lupus contagious?
No.
Can lupus be cured?
There is no cure, but many people manage lupus well with treatment and follow-up.
Why are regular urine tests needed?
To check for kidney involvement early, when it is more treatable.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.