Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease.

Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease. It is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems and organs and cannot be cured. It can only be controlled over the long term with medication. The goals of comprehensive treatment are to control symptoms, prevent relapses, slow the progression of the disease, and provide symptomatic treatment. Because this disease cannot be cured, it is important to avoid sun exposure, overwork, and getting chilled in daily life to prevent triggering or worsening the condition. Particularly in women, it is crucial to avoid oral contraceptives.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease.

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease. It is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems and organs and cannot be cured. It can only be controlled over the long term with medication. The goals of comprehensive treatment are to control symptoms, prevent relapses, slow the progression of the disease, and provide symptomatic treatment. Because this disease cannot be cured, it is important to avoid sun exposure, overwork, and getting chilled in daily life to prevent triggering or worsening the condition. Particularly in women, it is crucial to avoid oral contraceptives.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
1min home-news-image

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Symptom Chart

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a multi-system, multi-organ autoimmune disease that cannot be cured but can only be controlled with medication to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications. Clinical manifestations are diverse, with most early symptoms typically being atypical, and sometimes not presenting any discomfort at all. Some individuals may experience acute onset, which can include high fever, progressive decline in platelets, and even progressive anemia, all characteristic of the acute phase. Other common symptoms include fever, skin erythema, and even ischemia of the extremities. Some people may experience joint pain, mainly in the finger joints and knee joints, as well as swelling of the lower limbs, chest tightness, and decreased exercise tolerance, which are more typical manifestations.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Can people with systemic lupus erythematosus have children?

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of unknown etiology, and it can affect multiple organs including the heart, lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. Once diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, it is essential to complete routine urine tests, 24-hour urine protein quantification, chest CT, and other related examinations to fully assess the condition and distinguish between mild, moderate, and severe cases. Treatment plans should be formulated based on the assessment of the condition. If it is purely systemic lupus erythematosus without damage to other organs and the condition is stable with reduced maintenance doses of steroids, then pregnancy can be considered. However, during pregnancy, it is crucial to regularly monitor pulmonary arterial hypertension, pulmonary artery pressure, 24-hour urine protein quantification, and kidney function. If complications such as lupus nephritis occur, treatment decisions should be based on the condition. For instance, if there is an increase in creatinine and significant proteinuria, pregnancy is not recommended as it can exacerbate the burden on the kidneys and lead to further deterioration of kidney function.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Test Items

First, if there are symptoms such as facial erythema, butterfly rash, joint pain, hair loss, or even stillbirth or miscarriage, systemic lupus erythematosus should be suspected. For systemic lupus erythematosus, related medical tests are necessary, including complete blood count, urinalysis, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, 13 autoantibody tests, and anticardiolipin antibodies. These are the primary and most basic tests, specifically the 13 autoantibody tests. If the diagnosis is confirmed based on these tests, further assessments such as heart evaluation, chest CT need to be perfected. When necessary, 24-hour urine protein quantitation and kidney biopsy should be performed to assess the damage to the kidneys and the severity of the condition, mainly influencing the subsequent treatment plan.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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What should be noted about systemic lupus erythematosus?

Patients with lupus should be cautious about several lifestyle factors. First, they should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as ultraviolet rays can potentially trigger the activity of lupus. Second, they should not overexert themselves, as fatigue can also lead to an exacerbation of lupus symptoms. Third, they must strictly avoid infections. Due to the long-term use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, lupus patients have reduced immunity, and even a minor infection can become uncontrollable. For lupus patients, lifelong medication is crucial. Commonly used medications include corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine. If the patient's visceral systems are involved, immunosuppressants may also be required. Additionally, patients should consistently attend regular check-ups at the rheumatology clinic. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)