R Sharmila prepared this document about systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation in connective tissues like skin and joints. Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, rashes, and blood disorders. The causes are not fully known but may involve genetic and environmental factors like UV exposure and stress. The condition results from a defect where the body produces antibodies against its own proteins, triggering inflammation. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and involves medications like anti-inflammatories, steroids, and stress reduction.

1. Prepared by,
R Sharmila
Prepared by,
R Sharmila

2. GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
 It is a chronic disease cause inflammation in
connective tissues.
 Generally connective tissues gives structure and
flexibility.
 Symptoms may vary according to the individual.
 It is a type of autoimmune disorder.
 Most affected individual have joint pain.
 Skin problems are common in SLE.

3.  Characteristic feature is across the cheeks and
the nose, called "Butterfly rashes".
 Rash does not itch.
 Tiny red spots appear on the skin called as
Petechiae, it leads to bleeding under the skin.
 It develop kidney problem too.
 It affects women more than men.

4. SYMPTOMS:
 Fatigue
 Joint pain
 Joint swelling
 Rashes on the skin
 Aneamia
 Blood clot

5. CAUSES:
 Exposure to UV rays
 Stress
 Certain medication induce SLE

6. PATHOGENESIS:
 Body produces own antibodies against self
protein.
 It is a Type III Hypersensitivity.
 T cell regulate B cell responses and infiltrate
target tissues, have defects in signalling,
adhesion, co – stimulation, gene transcription and
alternative splicing.
 Cytokine B cell stimulator (BLys), IL-6, IL-17, IL-
18, type I interferons and TNF α are involved in
the inflammation process.
 Apoptosis is increased.

7. DIAGNOSIS:
 Butterfly rashes.
 Mucous membrane ulcer in mouth or nose.
 Blood tests

8. TREATMENT:
• It cannot be cured by medication
• Treatment can vary based on the
symptoms.
• Anti inflammatory medication for
joint pain
• Creams for rashes.
• Corticosterois
• Minimizing the stress