What is the cause of Lupus?
Why the immune system attacks one’s own body systems is still not known. However, SLE is more common in women (8 times more common then in men). It is also commonly seen in adults from 20 to 45 years but can affect any age. Genetic factors, exposure to sunlight in genetically susceptible individuals and even infection is known to activate the autoimmune disturbance that causes lupus. Some drugs (drugs such as hydralazine used to treat high blood pressure and antiepileptic drugs such as phenytoin) are known to cause drug-induced lupus that usually resolves when the medications are discontinued. How does a patient with lupus present? In patients with discoid lupus, only the skin is involved. The rash usually is seen on the face and scalp, is red with raised borders and does not itch or cause pain but scarring may occur leading to permanent hair loss. Patients with SLE may have low-grade fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, arthritis, ulcers of the mouth and nose, hypersensitivity of skin on
