How does a person get lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's natural defense system (immune system) attacks healthy tissues instead of attacking only things like bacteria and viruses. This causes inflammation. Although some people with lupus have only mild symptoms, the disease is lifelong and can become severe. read more

Early diagnosis, as well as avoiding triggers for the disease, such as excessive exposure to the sun, can aid in the management of lupus. A rheumatologist -- a specialist in conditions of the muscles, joints, and bones -- can treat lupus with a number of medications that can effectively slow the progress of disease. read more

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S. have lupus. People of African, Asian, and Native American descent are more likely to develop lupus than are Caucasians. read more

Dr. Kalyani Perumal Dr. Perumal Autoimmune, systemic: Lupus is an autoimmune disease, in simple terms, your body produces certain antibodies that attack your own organs.It can affect any part of the body. read more