It is not clear what triggers this immune abnormality but several factors seem to be contributory in some patients. These include infection, hormonal, genetic, and unidentified environmental factors. The majority of patients with SLE have very mild symptoms which can be easily controlled with simple measures. A small minority have more serious manifestations which may require more aggressive forms of treatment. The seriousness of the disease is frequently related to the type and number of organs affected.
Skin rash a very common feature occurring in many patients.
This type of rash is in fact quite uncommon with most lupus rashes being far less specific and occurring anywhere on the body but especially over sun exposed areas. Many lupus rashes appear to be provoked or aggravated by direct sun exposure. Sores may also occur in the nose and mouth, and scalp hair loss may occur in some individuals. Patients with DLE are frequently otherwise well. They demonstrate few, if any, of the symptoms of SLE and usually have a nearly normal laboratory profile.