IIntroduction ntroduction

Lupus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a wide range of clinical presentations due to its effect on multiple organ systems. There are four main types of Lupus: Neonatal and Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (NLE), Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), Drug-induced Lupus (DIL), and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), the latter affecting the majority of patients.

Patients with Lupus experience abnormal immunological function and the production of autoantibodies, which leads to the formation of immune complexes that target healthy tissue.

1.9 - 5.6

1.9 - 5.6 Lupus affects iin n 1100,000 00,000 persons per year. persons per year.

Lupus occurs predominantly in young women with a female to male ratio of 10:1. It is less prevalent in whites than in other ethnic groups and the age at which it is typically diagnosed is 15 to 45. However, Lupus can affect any age, race and gender.

Genetic

Risk Factors Risk Factors

At least four susceptibility genes (first-degree relatives are about 20 times more likely to develop SLE)

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes, particularly HLA genes

Ig receptor genes

Environmental

Exposure to sunlight (i.e. ultraviolet light)

Exposure to chemicals such as hydrazine (found in tobacco) and aromatic amines (found in hair dyes)

Diet

Infection with certain viruses or bacteria

Hormonal

Androgens may inhibit while estrogens may enhance the expression of SLE

Elevated circulating prolactin