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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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

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.

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.

Lupus affects people of all ages, races, socioeconomic groups, and both sexes. But 90% of lupus patients are women, with the usual age of onset being between the ages of 16 and 36.

Medications used to treat lupus often include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, to relieve the pain and stop the inflammation. In more serious cases the physician may prescribe corticosteroids to suppress more severe inflammation. In some patients the newer immunosuppressive agents may be required, especially if there is kidney or brain involvement.

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.

Most people with lupus can live a normal life span if they are properly treated, follow their doctor's advice, and lead a healthy lifestyle.

People of all ethnicities may get lupus. Lupus is more prevalent in African-American, Latino, Asian, and Native American women than in Caucasian women.