Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, often life-long, autoimmune disease. Systemic lupus erythematosus was first described in 1828. The prevalence of the disease is also higher in Hispanic and Asian Americans. In addition, a familial predisposition to systemic lupus erythematosus has been identified. White blood cells and blood-clotting factors also can be characteristically decreased in SLE, known as leukopenia (leucopenia) andthrombocytopenia, respectively.
Pregnant mothers with antiphospholipid antibodies have an increased risk of miscarriage and premature birth. Pathogenic autoantibodies are the primary cause of tissue damage in patients with lupus. Talk therapy and support groups may help relieve depression and mood changes that may occur in patients with this disease. Although the specific cause of SLE is unknown, multiple genetic predispositions and gene-environment interactions have been identified (see chart below).
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