Women Health Issues

TYPES OF LUPUS
Kristen Etzel, Pharm.D. Candidate
Alpha Pi Chapter

Lupus is an auto-immune disorder affecting nearly 1.5 million people in the United States. In healthy individuals, the immune system protects the body from disease. In an individual with lupus, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells. There are several forms of lupus with different effects on the body and varying degrees of severity. Types of lupus include: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), Drug-Induced Lupus Erythematosus (DILE), and Neonatal Lupus. Although no one is safe from this disease, 90% of those affected are women.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
The most common form of lupus is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Generally, when people use the term “lupus,” they are referring to this type. SLE can affect several parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels and/or brain, and therefore it can be very detrimental. Although the etiology of SLE remains unknown, it is suggested that genetics may play a role in its development.

There is a wide myriad of symptoms including a “butterfly” rash (stretching across the nose and cheeks), photosensitivity, hair loss, pain and swelling in the joints, fatigue, abdominal pain, and depression, among others. Symptoms vary from patient to patient, and there may be periods of remission in which the patient has no symptoms whatsoever. When the disease is active, it is known as a “flare.” Flares can be triggered by an infection or sometimes by the sun.

While treatment of SLE varies in patients, the goal is always to minimize symptoms and inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often recommended for muscle and joint pain and arthritic symptoms. In some cases, corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be administered to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. When using corticosteroids, it is important to monitor for several side effects, including reduction in the body’s ability to fight off infection. Patients with lupus should be able to recognize early symptoms of a “flare” in order to let their physician know that they are in need of a change in therapy. As with many other diseases, early treatment will decrease the chance of permanent tissue or organ damage. Therefore, it is important to be educated and aware of the symptoms.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is a type of lupus that is limited to the skin. It is usually less severe than SLE and has no affect on other organs. If infected, patients will see a red, raised rash on the face, scalp, or other parts of the body. This rash may become thick and scaly, much like psoriasis, and can last for days or even years. DLE may occur at any age, but is seen mostly in those between 20 and 40 years old. The pathophysiology of DLE, like other forms of lupus, is unknown. However, it has been hypothesized that the T-cell mediated cytotoxicity of the skin may be induced by UV light exposure or stress. Patients with DLE rarely have systemic side effects, but nearly 10% of DLE patients may progress to SLE.
 

I encourage all members to visit the Lupus Foundation of America website to see the great, free resources available to the general public. There are handouts, brochures, posters, pins and many other items available for your chapters to use at health fairs on your campus.  Lupus Merchandise Order Form