Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that affects the connective tissues. SLE is characterized by recurring remissions and exacerbations, which are especially common during the spring and summer.
Incidence
It strikes women 8 times as often as it does men, increasing to 15 times as often during childbearing years.
Etiology:
The direct cause is unknown but it can be predisposed by certain factors
Predisposing factors
Autoimmunity is believed to be the prime mechanism in SLE. The body produces antibodies against components of its own cells, such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA), and immune complex disease follows. Patients with SLE may produce antibodies against many different tissue components, such as red blood cells (RBCs), neutrophils, platelets, lymphocytes, or almost any organ or tissue in the body.
- Physical or mental stress
- Streptococcal or viral infections
- Exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light
- Immunization
- Pregnancy
- Abnormal estrogen metabolism
- Drugs, including procainamide, hydralazine, anticonvulsants; less commonly, penicillins, sulfa drugs, oral contraceptives
Autoimmunity is believed to be the prime mechanism in SLE. The body produces antibodies against components of its own cells, such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA), and immune complex disease follows. Patients with SLE may produce antibodies against many different tissue components, such as red blood cells (RBCs), neutrophils, platelets, lymphocytes, or almost any organ or tissue in the body.
