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From: margaret@asgb.UUCP (Margaret Ann Farnik)
Newsgroups: net.med
Subject: Re: What is Lupus?
Message-ID: <815@asgb.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 11-Nov-85 10:32:16 EST
Article-I.D.: asgb.815
Posted: Mon Nov 11 10:32:16 1985
Date-Received: Wed, 13-Nov-85 04:23:32 EST
References: <853@houxl.UUCP>
Organization: Burroughs Corp. ASG, Boulder Colo.
Lines: 57

> Can anyone tell me anything about a disease called
> Lupus?  Any information would be greatly appreciated.
> Thank you.

Boy, can I tell you about Lupus. (:-) Lupus is the common name for Systemic
Lupus Erythmatosis. It is an autoimmune disease, considered to be part of the
arthritis family. There is no specific known cause (yet), but it is believed to
be linked to sun exposure, possibly allergies, and probably a genetic pre-
disposition toward it. There are many early symptoms. Some of these include
a rash on the face (usually shaped like a butterfly- imagine your nose as the 
body, and a wing on each cheek- mine makes me look like a racoon), general
tiredness and/or malaise, pain in the joints, angina-like pain in the chest,
a (possibly) raised rash on the chest, back, or arms after sun exposure. It
can be diagnosed by a few blood tests (an LE-prep, anti-dna antibody, ana, and
a host of others).  Treatment depends on the physician, and your particular
disease. It acts differently in each case (making it difficult to diagnose, 
and later treat.) Generally, an initial treatment of NSAIDS (non-steriodal
anti-inflammitory drugs), such as Clinoril, asprin, Feldene, and such is the
first line of attack. If this doesn't work, then steriods (such as Prednisone)
are tried. They are useful in knocking down a flare of the disease, but have
HORRIBLE side effects. But, the side effects beat dying. Other new treatments
include blood filtering (I forget the exact name of the procedure right now), 
immunosuppresents (such as those used in organ transplants), and chemotherapy
(Cytoxin, etc.) These last treatments are generally a last ditch effort, and 
should be approached with caution. 

As for the disease itself, autoimmune means "allergic to self." Your antibodies
become confused as to what is a foreign cell, and what is a 'homebody' (ie-
you!) The weakest points are attacked first- generally the joints. This produces
a non-deforming form of arthritis. Other favorite areas of attack are the lining
of the heart and lungs, which produces an angina-like pain in the chest. The
kidneys are also a vulnerable area, with nephritis being one of the more serious
complications of the disease.  Liver damage is also possible.  Up to 10 years
ago, a patient was usually given about 3 years to live. Now, with proper
treatment, there is no reason that the lifespan should be shortened, barring 
major complications. There is some connection between UltraViolet light (the
sun being a primary source) and the triggering of the disease.  Most (but not
all) Lupins have a sun sensitivity to some degree. But with the appropriate
paraphenalia (#22 SPF sunscreen, floppy hat, long sleeve shirt, umbrella, pup
tent...) you can make brief outings to the great outdoors. Most (~90%) of the
persons struck by Lupus are women.  

Lupus can certainly complicate your life, and be a real pain in the wherever
a lot of the time. But it is not generally fatal, and gives you a real empathy
with what older folks are going through. If you have it, or know someone who
does, have them contact their local chapter of the Arthritis Foundation for
more complete information. I am also available through email for any questions
you may have. (Don't expect a reply until after Dec 9- I'm going on a honeymoon
trip to New Zealand, starting tomorrow 11/12.)


Margaret Farnik
Burroughs DSG Boulder Colo
...{hao|bmcg}!asgb!margaret


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