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General Overview
Systemic lupus erythematosus (or lupus) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of joints, tendons, skin, and other connective tissues and organs. It causes the immune system to produce antibodies that attack the body's healthy cells and tissues.
InDepth
- What is lupus?
- What are the risk factors?
- What are the symptoms?
- How is it diagnosed?
- How is it treated?
- What are the screening tests?
- How can I reduce my risk?
- What should I ask my doctor about lupus?
Find answers in our in-depth report on lupus:
Managing Lupus
What you need to know about managing lupus
A lupus diagnosis can leave you reeling. Initially it may be a relief to have a name for the fatigue and pain you’ve had, but what now?
Special Topics
Lupus and intimacy
The physical symptoms of lupus—feeling extremely tired, hair loss, rashes on the face, and joint pain—may make you feel unattractive or unwilling to have sex. Can you have that intimacy you shared before? Yes—with open communication and a willingness to explore—you can.
The alarm clock sounded and once again, Ann was not ready for it. Day after day, she awoke feeling tired. For months she felt fatigued, and today was no different. She could barely make it out of bed. How, at age 32, could she be so run down? Read more here about Ann's story and her diagnosis with lupus.
Lupus is a risk factor for infertility. Read more here.
Lupus is a risk factor for pemphigus. Read more here.