What is LUPUS ?

Lupus Erythematosus usually appears in one of two forms:  Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (the skin form, called discoid LE) or Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (the internal form, called systematic LE or SLE).  Neither form is contagious. 

Discoid LE has a particular type of skin rash with raised, red, scaly areas, often with healing in the centres.  These rashes are seen most commonly on the face and other areas exposed to light. Usually patients with Discoid LE have normal integral organs.

Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (or SLE) is classified as a rheumatic disease in the same family as Rheumatoid Arthritis.  It is a long-lasting systematic inflammatory disease, which causes changes in the blood vessels and connective tissue.

It causes damage to the structure of the organs and how they function - organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys.  It can also affect the joints, muscles, skin, nervous system and also the digestive system