When someone refers to "lupus," they typically imply the most prevalent kind, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). There are, however, several additional kinds and subtypes, some of which may overlap.
The chronic autoimmune disease lupus is caused by your immune system attacking your body's tissues, cells, and organs by mistake. It might manifest differently in each individual, resulting in varying symptoms.
We'll talk about the many forms of lupus and their primary symptoms in this article.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
The most prevalent kind of lupus is SLE. People allocated to the feminine gender at birth are primarily affected by this kind of lupus, with Black people being most at risk.
Your body's systems and organs may be impacted by SLE in many ways. It may result in swelling in your:
- joints
- lungs
- brain
- skin
- kidneys
- heart
- blood vessels
Individual differences exist in SLE symptoms. They may consist of:
- fevers
- fatigue
- joint pain or swelling
- skin rashes
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Dermatological lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a skin-specific disease. Doctors additionally distinguish four primary kinds of CLE:
- chronic
- subacute
- intermittent
- acute
Chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Long-lasting chronic CLE (CCLE) has the potential to leave lifelong scars. About 4 out of 5 cases are discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), which is the most frequent kind.
Coin-shaped, inflammatory skin lesions are a symptom of DLE. Although these lesions can occur anywhere on the body, they most frequently do so on the ears, face, and scalp. Internal organs are often unaffected by DLE, but in certain cases, it might cause nausea.
DLE primarily affects individuals in their 40s and 50s who were assigned female at birth.
Other CCLE varieties consist of:
- hard, deep nodules caused by panniculitis, lupus profundus
- chilblain lupus erythematosus, which is frequently brought on by cold weather and results in lesions on the fingers and toes
- erythematosus lupus overlap syndrome of lichen planus, exhibiting characteristics of both CLE and lichen planus
Intermittent cutaneous lupus erythematosus
The more popular terms for intermittent CLE are lupus timidus or tumid lupus erythematosus (TLE). TLE was formerly thought to be a different kind of CCLE by scientists.
An unusual kind of lupus that can strike anyone is called TLE. TLE typically manifests on its own, independent of a prior history of lupus, in contrast to many other forms of this illness.
A smooth, pink to violet papule rash on your skin may result from TLE. These lesions may not leave scars and typically manifest suddenly. TLE typically develops on body parts that are exposed to the sun.
Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus
SLE patients may develop subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE). Usually, it results in red, scaly sores on body regions exposed to the sun, such as your:
- neck
- back
- arms
- shoulders
Although these lesions usually heal without leaving scars, they can result in permanent discolouration.
SCLE frequently spreads to the joints, producing discomfort and edoema.
Acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Acute CLE (ACLE) typically describes transient cutaneous problems seen by SLE patients. Localised symptoms, such as the recognisable malar (or butterfly) rash, are possible. Additionally, they may be more extensive, spreading over the face, neck, arms, and torso like measles.
Rarely, bullae—widespread blisters packed with fluid—may result from ACLE. This bullous SLE, as doctors refer to it, is more common in those with African heritage.
Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
DILE, or drug-induced lupus erythematosus, is a reaction to some drugs. More than 100 drugs have been found by scientists to cause DILE, however, some of the most popular ones are as follows:
- procainamide is used to treat arrhythmias of the heart.
- hydralazine, a drug for elevated blood pressure
- The drug isoniazid is used to treat tuberculosis.
- TNF-alpha inhibitors: a treatment for inflammatory diseases
Your susceptibility to DILE after taking these drugs depends in part on your genetic makeup.
DILE symptoms resemble SLE symptoms, but they are typically less severe. Usually, they go away when you stop using the drug.
Neonatal lupus erythematosus
Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is not a true kind of lupus, despite its nomenclature. This rare autoimmune disorder can manifest in a baby or foetus if the person giving birth carries unique autoantibodies (antibodies that target their cells) that cross the placenta.
In addition to newborns whose parents do not have lupus, it can also develop in babies whose parents do not.
The following symptoms in a newborn can be brought on by NLE:
- skin rashes
- liver problems
- low blood cell counts
- a sluggish heartbeat brought on by a congenital heart block
Except for heart block, most of these symptoms normally go away in a few months. Heart block sufferers can eventually require a pacemaker.
Lupus in children
Compared to lupus in adults, paediatric lupus is less prevalent. SLE is the most common kind of lupus in children, just like it is in adults.The skin, joints, and main internal organs are the most often affected areas in children with lupus. Compared to adults, it can be more severe or aggressive in youngsters.It typically appears in kids around the age of twelve. After the age of 13, children who acquire lupus typically exhibit more conventional lupus symptoms. Individuals who experience it earlier in life, particularly before the age of five, typically have a more severe case.
Takeaway
Understanding the many forms of lupus can help you make sense of your unique illness. It's crucial to consult a medical expert if you suspect you may have lupus. They will assist in creating a customised treatment strategy that takes into account your unique requirements and symptoms.
Numerous individuals with various forms of lupus can have active, satisfying lives if their condition is well managed.
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