Lupus (SLE)
An autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys and other organs — often appearing as several unrelated problems at once. With specialist care and modern treatment, most people live full, active lives.
What is lupus?
Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation that can affect many different parts of the body — the skin, joints, kidneys, blood and other organs. Because it can look different in each person, lupus is sometimes called "the great imitator." With modern treatment and specialist care, most people with lupus live full, active lives.
Symptoms to recognise
Lupus varies widely, but common features that should prompt assessment include:
- Persistent fatigue that isn't explained by anything else
- Joint pain and swelling, often in the hands and wrists
- A rash across the cheeks and nose (a "butterfly" rash), or rashes brought on by sunlight
- Unexplained fever, hair loss, or mouth ulcers
- Fingers that turn white or blue in the cold (Raynaud's)
- Symptoms that flare and settle over time
What causes it?
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but lupus develops from a combination of genetic predisposition and triggers such as sunlight, infections, hormonal factors and certain medications. It is far more common in women, particularly during the childbearing years. Lupus is not contagious and is not caused by anything a person did.
When should you see a rheumatologist?
See a rheumatologist if you have a combination of unexplained fatigue, joint pain, rashes, or other symptoms suggesting your immune system may be involved — or if a blood test (such as ANA) has come back positive. Early diagnosis and careful monitoring protect the organs, especially the kidneys, and make a major difference to long-term health.
How it is diagnosed
There is no single test for lupus; diagnosis brings together the full picture:
- Clinical assessment — the pattern of symptoms across the body over time
- Blood and urine tests — including ANA, anti-dsDNA and other antibodies, blood counts, and tests of kidney function
- Ongoing evaluation — because lupus evolves, monitoring over time is part of confirming and understanding it
How it is treated
Treatment is tailored to which parts of the body are involved, aiming to control inflammation, prevent flares and protect the organs:
- Hydroxychloroquine — a foundational, well-tolerated medicine used by most people with lupus
- Immune-modulating medication — to calm the overactive immune response when needed
- Targeted therapies — for more active disease or specific organ involvement
- Sun protection and regular monitoring — simple but important parts of staying well
With consistent specialist care, the outlook for lupus today is very good, and most flares can be prevented or controlled.
Symptoms that don't seem to add up?
Fatigue, joint pain and rashes together deserve a proper autoimmune assessment. Consultations are walk-in, no appointment needed.
Clinic timings & location