From Lupus

The most common form of lupus, that is, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory, and often febrile multisystemic disorder of the connective tissue. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is thought to result from a disorder of the immune regulation system inducing an immune response against host antigens. This leads to inflammation and irreversible damage to target organs. The disease is marked by a range of system dysfunctions, an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and the formation of LE cells in the blood or bone marrow.

Treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients centres on prescribing medications that manage the active phase of the disease without causing long-term damage. Traditional therapy for lupus is based on corticosteroids, which suppress the overreactive immune system. Corticosteroid therapy, however, is not specific and the side effects may themselves be fatal.

Cytotoxic (immunosuppressive) drugs are often prescribed to control severe cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) involving major organs, or severe muscle inflammation.

Side effects include lower blood cell counts, sterility, increased risk of infection and a risk of developing certain types of cancer. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients receiving cytotoxic drug therapy should have regular blood tests and be monitored closely.

In cases of patients with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), results of liver biopsy have revealed multi-focal hepatic cell death in a severe fatty liver, without any inflammatory cell invasion. The biopsy also show a positive TUNEL (Tdt-catalysed DNA nick end labelling) reaction indicating apoptosis. Liver functions have recovered rapidly following steroid pulse therapy.