While the exact cause of this disease is unknown, in lupus antibodies form against our own body's cells, and this attack on our immune system can end up injuring the skin and other organs of the body. There are really two types of lupus. One is systemic, and may involve the blood vessels, joints, kidneys, mucous membranes, heart and nervous system. The second kind of lupus is called Discoid Lupus, and is focused on the skin, causing a red, raised and scaly rash that is seen most often on the face and neck areas. Lupus can be acute, with rapid onset of more severe symptoms, or progress slowly, with episodes of symptoms mixed with periods of times when individuals have no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis can be difficult depending on what stage of the disease the patient is in.
A combination of several blood tests may be needed, with urine studies, chest X-ray and EKG to determine other organ involvement. Treatment is aimed at controlling the symptoms. Treatment of choice for systemic symptoms, acute episodes or serious disease related to organ systems remains corticosteroid medications, which are prescribed and managed by your doctor. Because of the nature of this illness, emotional support plays a big part in the lives of those with lupus. There are support groups available for those with this disease as well as for their family members.