Types of Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): When people refer to lupus, they are typically referring to this type. SLE may affect the skin, joints, brain, kidneys, and other organs. Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe complication of SLE that occurs when the kidneys are affected. SLE makes up 70% of patients with lupus, making it the most common form.
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: This type of lupus impacts the skin, resulting in rashes and lesions.
Drug-induced lupus: This form of lupus is triggered by certain prescription medications. The symptoms of drug-induced lupus are similar to those of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and typically resolve within six months of discontinuing the medication that triggered the condition.
Neonatal lupus: This is a rare type of lupus that affects infants of women with lupus. Infants with neonatal lupus typically outgrow symptoms after around six months of age.

Complications of Lupus

Lupus may cause the development of complications and health risks in the following parts of the body:

Kidneys: Lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation) is one of the most common complications of lupus that can result in kidney damage and failure.
Heart: Lupus may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.
Blood: Complications involving blood in lupus include anemia (low red blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). There is also an increased risk of blood clotting.
Lungs: Complications involving the lungs includes inflammation of the chest cavity lining, bleeding in the lungs, and pneumonia.
Brain and Central Nervous System: Complications involving the brain and central nervous system in lupus may include behavior changes, strokes, seizures, vision problems, and memory problems.

Symptoms

People with lupus may experience a variety of signs and symptoms. The most common symptoms include:

“Butterfly” facial rash covering cheeks and nose and other rashes on the body

Fatigue

Pain, stiffness, and swelling of joints

Sensitivity to sunlight

Fever

Fingers and toes turning white or blue when stressed or exposed to the cold

Shortness of breath and chest pain

Headaches and confusion

Hair loss

Diagnosis Journey

Learn more about how people who are experiencing signs and symptoms of lupus can be diagnosed.

If you notice that you are experiencing symptoms of lupus including unexplained rash, persistent fever, aches and pains, or extreme fatigue, consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will examine you, discuss your symptoms, ask about your family history, and potentially do additional tests if lupus is suspected.

Process for diagnosis

There is no single test to diagnose lupus. However, doctors can diagnose individuals by using a combination of the following methods:

Medical history: Doctors may review medical history and documentation of symptoms.
Family history: Doctors may discuss if there is a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
Complete physical exam: Doctors will look for rashes or other signs and symptoms of lupus.
Urine tests: Doctors conduct urine tests to evaluate kidneys and detect any potential issues.
Blood tests: These tests can detect signs of inflammation and see how the immune system is functioning. Examples of blood tests include a complete blood count, antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, blood clotting time tests, and complement tests.
Biopsies: Doctors may perform a biopsy to detect inflammation, damage, and other signs of an autoimmune disease.

If you feel that you are not receiving adequate treatment, don't be afraid to explore other physicians and specialists in order to get the care you need.