Lupus
What Is Lupus?
Lupus refers to several forms of an immune system disease that affects joints, skin, kidneys and other parts of the body. The immune system is your body’s natural defense against infections, such as bacteria and viruses. In lupus, the immune system produces antibodies that react with the body’s own tissues. Because of this, lupus is referred to as an autoimmune disease.
Types of Lupus include:
Systemic Lupus
About 70 percent of the people who have lupus have the systemic form, or SLE. A systemic disease is one in which several different body systems may be affected..
Discoid Lupus
About 15 percent of people with lupus have a form known as discoid lupus or cutaneous lupus. This form of lupus results in a chronic skin rash that can sometimes cause scars. Discoid lupus may affect the skin without affecting other organs.
Drug-Induced Lupus
The least common form of lupus develops as a result of drugs taken for other medical problems. This form is called drug-induced lupus. Signs and symptoms are similar to SLE, although people with this form of lupus rarely develop serious organ damage. Signs and symptoms usually improve and disappear once the drug is stopped.