< Rheumatology

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus  (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a rare, chronic autoimmune condition that can affect different parts of the body, such as:

  • Kidneys
  • Skin
  • Joints
  • Blood

Lupus is more common in teen girls and can be triggered by factors such as the hormonal imbalance of puberty. Other triggers include:

  • Environmental factors
  • Viral infections
  • Certain medicines

as well as other symptoms, such as:

  • Butterfly rash across nose and cheeks
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mouth sores

Treatment is used to reduce symptoms and make your child feel better. Options include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medicines such as steroids (prednisone)
  • Immunosuppressive medicines to calm an overactive immune system