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Types of Lupus

Lupus is the general for several forms of the disease: systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus, drug-induced lupus, neonatal lupus. Here you will discover more about the four basic forms, their pathophysiology, specific signs and symptoms, causes and risk factors, for developing each kind.
Types of Lupus
Lupus (sometimes generically referred to as SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus) is an autoimmune disease, one that takes on several forms and can affect any part of the body, but is most commonly attacks the skin, joints, the heart, lungs, blood, kidneys and brain.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
The most common form of lupus, systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, can affect many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, blood vessels and organs.
Drug-Induced Lupus
Drug-induced lupus is a condition mimicking the symptoms of lupus, but brought on by certain types of drugs, usually taken over long periods of time. Drug induced lupus is completely reversible once the drug is discontinued.
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
In discoid lupus, chronic inflammatory sores develop on the face, ears, scalp and on other body areas.
Neonatal Lupus
This is a rare form of temporary lupus affects a fetus or newborn (usually coming to the fore in the first few months of life). It occurs when the mother’s autoantibodies are passed to her child in utero. These autoantibodies can affect the skin, heart, and/or blood of the baby.

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