Systemic lupus erythematosus, also known as SLE, or, simply, lupus, is a disease that is characterized by periodic episodes of inflammation of and damage to the joints, tendons, other connective tissues, and organs, including the heart, lungs, blood vessels, brain, kidneys, and skin. The heart, lungs, kidneys, and brain are the organs most affected.
Lupus affects each individual differently and the effects of the illness range from mild to severe.
Lupus can potentially be fatal. Children with lupus can have a large degree of kidney involvement. The severity of the kidney involvement can alter the survival rate of patients with lupus. In some cases, kidney damage is so severe it leads to kidney failure. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder, which means the body's immune system attacks its own healthy cells and tissues.