SLE: Body Signals Warning of an “Immune System Outbreak”
What is SLE?
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), also known as “Autoimmune Disease”
It is a condition where the body’s immune system, which is responsible for fighting foreign invaders like germs, malfunctions and instead attacks and destroys its own tissues and organs. This causes inflammation and potential damage throughout the body.
SLE is a chronic disease more commonly found in females than males, especially during childbearing age. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be related to several factors, including genetics, sex hormones, and environmental triggers such as sunlight, infections, or certain medications.
Symptoms and Warning Signs to Look Out For
Since SLE can affect multiple organ systems, the symptoms vary among patients. However, they generally involve inflammation in various systems as follows:
1. General Symptoms
- Chronic or low-grade fever without a known cause
- Fatigue, easily tired, and lack of energy
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
2. Skin Symptoms
- Butterfly Rash (Malar Rash): Red rash over both cheeks and the bridge of the nose, resembling a butterfly’s wings, which is a hallmark sign of the disease.
- Photosensitivity Rash: Rash appearing on skin exposed to sunlight, especially in areas not covered by clothing.
- Hair loss more than usual
- Oral Ulcers: Often found on the palate, and mostly painless.
3. Joint and Muscle Symptoms
- Joint Pain: Often presents as migratory arthritis, meaning pain shifts from one joint to another. It may be accompanied by joint swelling, inflammation, or stiffness.
4. Internal Organ Symptoms
- Kidney Inflammation (Lupus Nephritis): A significant and severe complication. Symptoms may include excessive foamy urine or blood in the urine.
- Blood System Abnormalities: Such as anemia (paleness, fatigue), low white blood cell count, or low platelet count.
- Inflammation of Various Membranes: Such as pleuritis (chest pain when breathing) or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining).
- Nervous System and Brain: Such as severe headache, seizures, or psychiatric symptoms.
If you or someone close to you observes several of the above symptoms occurring simultaneously or persistently, you should consult a specialist in Rheumatology for a correct diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves the doctor taking a medical history, performing a physical examination, and conducting laboratory tests. This especially includes blood tests for immune system abnormalities, such as testing for Antinuclear Antibody (ANA), which is a key factor in confirming the disease, along with tests for inflammation in other organs, such as urinalysis and kidney function tests.
Treatment Guidelines
Currently, SLE is a chronic disease that cannot yet be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled, and damage to various organs can be prevented with appropriate treatment, which includes:
- Medication: The doctor will consider medication based on the severity of the symptoms and the affected organs, such as antimalarial drugs (Hydroxychloroquine), steroids, and other immunosuppressants.
- Self-Care: Patients must strictly take the medication as prescribed by the doctor and should not stop the medication on their own. This also includes self-care to avoid triggers, such as avoiding direct sunlight, getting enough rest, and preventing infections.
References
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): A Malicious Disease Caused by Immune System Dysfunction | Bangkok Hospital Headquarters
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
- SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) – Autoimmune Disease – Lupus | Bumrungrad Hospital
- Get to Know… SLE Autoimmune Disease: Meet the Doctor Mahidol [by Mahidol Channel]
