Lupus

A disease of the immune system that affects many more women more than men (9:1) and at a relatively young age (15-50)

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0207 079 4344

About

Lupus is a disease of the immune system where a wide variety of antibodies are produced, leading to inflammation in the joints and skin. Lupus may begin aggressively as an acute illness or might be undiagnosed for years. It can also appear as a transient disease. Earlier diagnosis and advancements in treatment mean that the majority of patients have a normal lifespan and lifestyle.

Need to know

  • Symptoms of lupus icon plus

    Symptoms of lupus vary greatly depending on the type you have, but may include:

    • virtually any type of skin rash
    • hair loss
    • aches and pains
    • inflammation in your tendons
    • inflammation of your veins
    • sharp pain in the lower part of your chest when breathing in deeply (pleurisy)
    • depression and/ or psychosis
    • kidney disease

  • Diagnosis icon plus

    Your consultant will speak to you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. To make a diagnosis, your consultant will normally expect at least four of the internationally recognised list of 11 accepted conditions to be present. These are:

    1. malar rash (red rash over your cheeks)

    2. discmoid rash (red patches of skin on your body)

    3. photosensitivity

    4. mouth or nose ulcers

    5. serositis (inflammation of the tissue covering your internal organs)

    6. arthritis

    7. renal disorders

    8.neurological disorder (including seizures and balance problems)

    9. haematological disorder

    10. immunologic disorder

    11. a positive anti-nuclear antibody test (ANA)

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Treatment options include:

    • medications (including aspirin and other non-steroids, anti-malaria drugs, steroids and immunosuppressive drugs)
    • oral contraceptives
    • sun cream to block out UV-rays on photosensitive skin
    • lifestyle and food choices as directed by your consultant
    • kidney dialysis or transplant, if you have severe kidney disease
    • plasma exchange (separating and removing plasma from your blood)

Our consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex disorders related to Lupus to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional specialist Lupus care in our hospitals and clinics.

Book an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

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020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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