Butterfly-shaped rash, an autoimmune disease called 'Lupus'
Autoimmune disease lupus
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the entire body and is classified as an autoimmune disease,
with symptoms that change frequently, causing daily fluctuations in improvement and worsening. It triggers chronic
inflammation in the body, often affecting the skin, joints, blood, lungs, and kidneys. Lupus primarily occurs in
women of childbearing age, especially between 15 and 45.
Symptoms of Lupus
Skin symptoms are the most common, occurring in 80?90% of patients. Typical manifestations include a
butterfly-shaped rash across the bridge of the nose and cheeks, discoid rash, and oral ulcers. Various other
symptoms may also appear, such as fever over 38°C, arthritis, joint pain, skin rashes, overall fatigue, anemia,
proteinuria, shortness of breath, chest pain, hair loss, and photosensitivity.
Treatment for lupus
Lupus is a condition with unpredictable progression, and its symptoms can vary widely and change frequently, making
it challenging to determine the appropriate level of treatment. Treatment primarily involves medication, which may
include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials, steroids, and immunosuppressants, depending
on the patient's condition.
The need for stable management of symptoms
Lupus is characterized by cycles of symptom improvement and worsening. Factors such as exposure to ultraviolet (UV)
light, infectious diseases like the common cold, pregnancy and childbirth, and stress can exacerbate the condition.
It is important to avoid UV light, get enough rest, and manage lupus symptoms appropriately for stable control.
Please ensure you consult a rheumatology specialist for proper care!