Initial symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus

Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
Updated on September 06, 2024
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Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems and organs and is associated with a variety of autoimmune antibodies, primarily occurring in women of childbearing age. Its clinical manifestations are diverse, with the condition being mild and recurrently evolving. The most common symptoms involve changes to the skin, where various types of edematous erythema can occur, and in severe cases, there can be blisters, ulcers, erosion, skin atrophy, hyperpigmentation, and scar formation. Among these, the butterfly rash is most specific. Additionally, other symptoms may include joint swelling and pain; kidney involvement can lead to foamy urine, which is a common presentation; gastrointestinal involvement can cause diarrhea, and neurological involvement can lead to mental disorders and seizures. Therefore, once facial rashes, photosensitivity, or joint swelling and pain occur, it is crucial to be vigilant, undergo relevant examinations promptly, diagnose early, and treat early, as it is very important for the prognosis of the disease.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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What medication is used for systemic lupus erythematosus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a global autoimmune disease that can involve multiple systems and organs. The cause of the disease is unclear, and it cannot be completely cured; it can only be managed through medication. However, once the condition stabilizes, the medication dosage can be gradually reduced and maintained at a low dose. The preferred treatment is corticosteroids, but if there is damage to other organs, such as pulmonary interstitial fibrosis or renal damage and proteinuria, it is necessary to combine immunosuppressants. This is done to prevent recurrence of the disease and to manage complications that may arise during the reduction of steroids. Additionally, it is crucial to be cautious about sun protection, avoid oral contraceptives, and prevent exposure to cold and overexertion. (Please take medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Can people with systemic lupus erythematosus drink alcohol?

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are advised not to drink alcohol as it can damage the gastric mucosa. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus often need to use corticosteroids for a long duration due to their condition, and prolonged use of corticosteroids can also harm the gastric mucosa. Therefore, drinking alcohol while using corticosteroids can easily lead to complications such as gastric ulcers, gastric bleeding, or even severe complications like hemorrhagic shock. Hence, it is recommended that lupus patients abstain from alcohol to protect their stomachs. By not consuming alcohol during corticosteroid treatment, the risk to the stomach can be significantly reduced.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Can systemic lupus erythematosus be cured?

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease and is chronic. The cause of the disease is mostly unclear, but studies have shown that it is related to genetics, environmental pollution, viral infections, hormone levels, and other factors. As an autoimmune disease, it cannot be completely cured. The main purpose of treatment is to control symptoms, delay the onset of complications, and improve the quality of life. The preferred treatment involves corticosteroids. The dosage should be adjusted according to the condition; after stabilizing, the dosage should gradually be reduced to a small maintenance dose. It is important to continue the medication even during maintenance therapy, as discontinuing the medication can lead to a recurrence of the disease. Additionally, chilling, fatigue, infection, and sun exposure can all trigger the activity of lupus, so it is important to be cautious in daily life. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Test Items

First, if there are symptoms such as facial erythema, butterfly rash, joint pain, hair loss, or even stillbirth or miscarriage, systemic lupus erythematosus should be suspected. For systemic lupus erythematosus, related medical tests are necessary, including complete blood count, urinalysis, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, 13 autoantibody tests, and anticardiolipin antibodies. These are the primary and most basic tests, specifically the 13 autoantibody tests. If the diagnosis is confirmed based on these tests, further assessments such as heart evaluation, chest CT need to be perfected. When necessary, 24-hour urine protein quantitation and kidney biopsy should be performed to assess the damage to the kidneys and the severity of the condition, mainly influencing the subsequent treatment plan.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Clinical Manifestations

The clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus are diverse and variable. The primary symptoms involve the bones, joints, and muscles, with joint pain being a common presentation. The second major area affected is the skin and mucous membranes, where the most common symptoms are symmetrical butterfly-shaped erythema and discoid erythema on the face. Some patients experience kidney involvement, primarily presenting as significant proteinuria, hematuria, and cylindrical urine. Pulmonary involvement is also common in some patients, often manifesting as pleurisy. The digestive system can also be affected, typically presenting as abdominal pain. The hematological system is a very common site of involvement in lupus, mainly indicated by routine blood tests showing decreases in white blood cells and platelets.