WHAT IS LUPUS?Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, commonly known as Lupus, is a disorder of the immune system. Our immune system primarily serves the purpose of defending our body against infections. At the same time it is busy with internal housekeeping, such as removing old dysfunctional and malignant cells. In Lupus, the immune system becomes over-reactive. It produces antibodies which damage normal healthy cells. This in turn leads to disease of the organs to which the antibodies were directed. Fact: Although Lupus patients have an overactive immune system, they often struggle to fight common infections like respiratory or bowel infections. Bowel infections is further aggravated if the patients are on medications such as corticosteroids and immuno-suppressive drugs. Infections may not only become life threatening, but they can also make the Lupus become active. Identifying and treating infections early is critical to managing the disease. |
Lupus has a different disease pattern in different patients according to the antibodies involved. Most patients with Lupus suffer from joint pains and skin rashes. However, many also develop fluid around the heart and lungs, and in some cases, kidney disease and dysfunction of some brain activities. The latter could lead to visual disturbances, memory loss, epileptic fits, severe headaches and psychological problems.
Fact: Young women, averaging 22 years old, are most affected, though the disease can occur in men and other age groups. It is most prevalent among people of African descent in the Caribbean and North America. | Fact: Young Caribbean women experiencing joint pain, skin rashes, or excess protein in their urine are encouraged to do a blood test promptly to detect Lupus and prevent severe, permanent organ damage. |
The diagnosis of Lupus is suspected after someone has done a Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) blood test and the results turn out to be positive. Other tests, including Anti-DNA and Anti-Sm will confirm the diagnosis. In many patients however the diagnosis is suspected, but not confirmed. These are patients with a mild form of the disease. Repetitive analysis will usually confirm the diagnosis over a period of years.