Systemic lupus erythematosus, also commonly referred to as lupus or SLE, is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease. Lupus can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, heart, nervous system and other organs of the body. It is not uncommon for symptoms associated with lupus to resemble symptoms associated with other types of arthritis and rheumatic disease, making lupus difficult to diagnose.

• What Causes Lupus?
• What Are the Types of Lupus?
• What Symptoms Are Associated With Lupus?
• How is Lupus Diagnosed and Treated?

Lupus affects 10 times more women than men. Though lupus can develop at any age, disease onset usually occurs between the ages of 18 and 45 years old. The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that 1.5 million Americans have one of the types of lupus, but that estimate may be low. Learn the Fast Facts About Lupus.

Related Resources:

• Guide to Lupus
• Lupus Screening Quiz
• What is Lupus Nephritis?
• Lupus: Test Your Knowledge
• Lupus: Not a Simple Disease

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