Our body's immune system fights infection by making antibodies. The antibodies work by finding invaders and coating them for removal. Sometimes the immune system gets confused and begins to make antibodies against the body itself. For example, in rheumatoid arthritis the immune system attacks the joints. Because of this, people with rheumatoid arthritis get joint pain and swelling. Back to top.

The lupus anticoagulant is classified as a type of antiphospholipid antibody that was first detected in people with lupus. It was later learned that many people who do not have lupus, also produce these antibodies. In fact, according to most studies, greater than 50% of the people who have antiphospolipid antibodies, DO NOT have lupus. So, just because a person has the lupus anticoagulant antibodies does not necessarily mean that they have or will develop systemic lupus. See similar questions...

All of Dr. DiGioia’s surgical patients are to have Lovenox injections for 2 weeks postoperatively and then ASA for 2 weeks. There is no need for anti-coagulants after that unless specified by Dr. DiGioia. Some patients that have a higher risk for blood clots may have to take the blood thinners for a longer time. See similar questions...

anticoagulant is a medication that thins the blood, making the blood less likely to clot. Warfarin (Coumadin?), heparin, and low molecular weight heparins (for example, Lovenox) are all anticoagulants, or "blood thinners". Back to top. See similar questions...

The cause of lupus remains unknown. It is believed that lupus has a genetic pre-disposition and something in the environment triggers the onset of the disease. See similar questions...

These symptoms can come or go, and can range from mild to severe. Most lupus patients have a combination of symptoms. See similar questions...

Twenty years ago the answer would have been "no." But today, successful pregnancy and childbirth are possible. It is wise for lupus patients to be in the care of a high-risk ob/gyn. See similar questions...

Heredity does seem to play a role. Ten percent of lupus patients have a first-degree relative (sister, daughter, son, mother) or a second-degree relative (aunt, uncle, first cousin) with lupus. Therefore, 90 percent of lupus patients DO NOT have relatives with lupus. Even in identical twins, when one sibling has lupus and the other twin does not, it is believed there are environmental factors that play an important role. See similar questions...

There are four main types of lupus: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) This is commonly referred to as lupus. Characterized by chronic pain and fatigue, the disease can and does attack many of the body's systems. Especially susceptible are the kidneys, blood, skin and joints. Discoid Lupus This type of lupus is often referred to as cutaneous or skin lupus. It is mainly concentrated at the skin, but can also attack hair follicles and mucus membranes. It will not affect internal organs. See similar questions...

Usually, patients are given aspirin during the first six weeks after surgery. Coumadin may be necessary for other conditions, but it is not routinely prescribed following the Maze procedure. See similar questions...

Yes, lupus is mainly a woman's disease, although men can have lupus. The ratio of women to men is 9 to 1, or 90%. Before puberty, boys and girls have the same ratio; that is 1 to 1. See similar questions...

of people diagnosed with lupus have positive ANAs. There are other blood tests more specific to people with lupus that can be used in some instances. See similar questions...

Yes, we can refer you to a rheumatologist, a specialist who diagnoses and treats lupus. Just call the Foundation at 800.74.LUPUS (800.745.8787). See similar questions...

Lupus is not contagious and it is not cancer. You cannot "catch" lupus, or give it to another person. See similar questions...

Lupus is not inherited, but it is believed that the tendency to develop lupus is inherited. However, although a person may have the genetic markers for lupus, he/she will not get lupus unless it is triggered by something. Some people, who have the genetic markers, will never develop lupus. See similar questions...

Lupus triggers often involve tissue damage of some sort, such as sunburn, viral infections, surgery, auto accidents, pregnancy, exposures to toxic chemicals such as hair dyes, adverse reactions to certain drugs, and also stress, which is known to depress the immune system. See similar questions...