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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, also called Lupus, is an autoimmune condition where the body starts attacking its own cells. It can involve multiple systems like the skin, kidney, joints, etc.
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Some people are genetically susceptible to Lupus, and the symptoms can be triggered by a number of infections, some drugs, and at times, even sunlight
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Its signs and symptoms can be transient, in the form of flares. Rashes and joint pain are the most common symptoms, whereas brain and kidney related problems are the most serious
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The affected person may become highly sensitive to light, and a butterfly-shaped rash (called the malar rash) may be seen on the skin
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Oral ulcers, thinning of hair/hair loss, and splinter haemorrhages are also seen in people with this autoimmune disease, along with thrombotic manifestations
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Reduced blood haemoglobin levels lead to anaemia in patients, and other necessary blood cells like white blood cells and platelets may also be reduced
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Neurological manifestations of SLE include delirium, psychosis, and even seizures. Some may experience mood disorders and headaches as well
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The heart is also affected, and there can be inflammation of the cardiac wall, disease of the arteries that provide blood supply to the heart, and also pulmonary hypertension
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Non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, perforation, are also observed in those with SLE
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SLE autoantibodies are necessary for diagnosis, like anti-nuclear antibodies and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies. Avoid triggers like ultraviolet light and smoking