People with SLE develop antibodies against their own tissues which attack self-tissue like a foreign invader. The disease has no cure at present, but treatment is available to manage the disease. Today the rash is often referred to as butterfly-like, but the wolf name persists. SLE was once thought a rare disease, but recent studies indicate that it may be more common than muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, or leukemia. More women develop SLE than men.
Current theories link the development of lupus with hereditary and environmental factors.
There is no genetic test to predict lupus. Some of the suspected environmental factors include stress, infections, and certain medications and chemicals. The diagnosis of SLE is made when other illnesses have been ruled out, and when a person has 4 of 11 criteria. It is important to remember that 4 or more of the above need to be present. Sometimes SLE is suspected with fewer symptoms present.