What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosis?
Systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE is one of a group of illnesses called autoimmune diseases. The immune system is the bodies defence against attack by foreign organisms like viruses and bacteria. One of the ways that the immune system works is by producing antibodies which are molecules that stick to foreign proteins and allow the cells of the immune system to destroy them. Sometimes, the immune system starts to make antibodies that stick to the bodies own cells. These antibodies are called autoantibodies and when they stick to the bodies own cells they cause an inflammatory reaction and can damage the cells.
