How Lupus Affects Your

Skin

* Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. DLE can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common on the face, scalp, neck, and upper chest.

* Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can also affect the skin, causing a variety of symptoms including:

* A butterfly-shaped rash on the face

* Red, scaly patches on the body

* Blisters

* Ulcers

* Hair loss

Joints

Lupus can cause inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. The joints most commonly affected by lupus are the small joints of the hands, feet, and wrists. However, lupus can also affect the larger joints, such as the knees, hips, and shoulders.

Lungs

Lupus can cause inflammation of the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. In severe cases, lupus can lead to scarring of the lungs, which can make it difficult to breathe.

Heart

Lupus can cause inflammation of the heart, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In severe cases, lupus can lead to heart failure.

Kidneys

Lupus can cause inflammation of the kidneys, leading to proteinuria (protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and decreased kidney function. In severe cases, lupus can lead to kidney failure.

Brain and nervous system

Lupus can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, including:

* Headaches

* Seizures

* Stroke

* Memory loss

* Psychosis

Blood and immune system

Lupus can cause a variety of blood and immune system abnormalities, including:

* Anemia

* Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)

* Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)

* Autoantibodies (antibodies that attack the body's own tissues)