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Lupus can also affect the lungs, eyes, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, and the blood itself.

A normal immune system only produces antibodies against viruses, bacteria, and other invaders, such as the foreign cells in a transplant. In a person with lupus, the immune system produces auto-antibodies--antibodies that attack a person's own healthy cells. These antibodies cause inflammation and damage to organs and tissues in that person's body.

Discoid lupus erythematosus is a form of lupus in which only the skin is affected. It causes a raised rash on the face and scalp, and the rash areas may become thick and lead to scarring. The rash may be short-lived (days) or last for years. Another form of lupus, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, also affects the skin, particularly in areas exposed to the sun. Certain medications may cause symptoms similar to SLE, but the symptoms usually go away when the person stops taking the medication. The more commonly reported medications include procainamide, hydralazine, isoniazid, chlorpromazine, methyldopa, penicillamine, and quinidine. Neonatal lupus is a rare form, affecting infants whose mothers may have SLE or another immune system disorder. Infants with this form of lupus may rarely have a heart problem that requires a pacemaker.

Lupus is much more common among women than among men, and African-American women are three times more likely to have lupus than are Caucasian women, the NIAMS says. Lupus is also more common among women who are Asians or of certain American Indian heritage. Lupus symptoms typically first appear between the ages of 15 and 45, although lupus can occur in children and older adults, as well.

Researchers say a combination of factors may cause lupus, and the cause may differ from person to person. No specific gene has been found that causes lupus, but several genes may make it more likely that a person will develop it. SLE is most common in women who are in their childbearing years, when they have the highest levels of estrogen in their body. Other factors that are being explored include sunlight, stress, medications, and viruses.

Each case of lupus is different; different people have different symptoms and differing degrees of severity. It is difficult to diagnose because of the wide variety of symptoms and because the symptoms are intermittent. Common symptoms, however, include painful or swollen joints, unexplained fever, skin rashes, and extreme fatigue, the NIAMS says. The rash usually appears in sun-exposed areas and spreads across the nose and cheeks, but it may also appear on the ears, upper arms, shoulders, chest, and hands. Other symptoms include chest pain, hair loss, sun sensitivity, anemia, and pale or purple finger and toes.

This inflammation (nephritis) can interfere with how the kidneys function. Other complications include an inflammation of the chest cavity called pleuritis; pneumonia; stroke; memory problems; blood vessel inflammation; and an inflammation of the heart called myocarditis.

Lupus is difficult to diagnose. Some cases may take years to be identified. An accurate medical history is important, because it can point out symptoms. A skin biopsy and certain laboratory tests, such as blood antibody tests—the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is one example—can help in the diagnosis.

There is no cure for lupus, but with appropriate medication, most people with the disease can lead active, healthy lives, the NIAMS says. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to help control pain, swelling, and fever. NSAIDs also have side effects, including gastrointestinal problems. Drugs used to treat malaria (Plaquenil) also have proved useful in treating lupus. These drugs help ease fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and lung inflammation. For more severe cases, corticosteroids are the main drugs used to ease inflammation. Long-term corticosteroids, however, can have side effects, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened or damaged bones.

Typical warning signs of a flare include increased fatigue, pain, rash, fever, headache, or dizziness. By getting regular checkups, you and your doctor can discuss any changes in symptoms that may have occurred and how your treatment may need to be adjusted. Your doctor can also answer questions you may have about using sunscreens, reducing stress, and developing a program of exercise and rest. You should also get regular dental checkups and a yearly eye exam. Joining a support group may also help you improve your coping skills, as well as provide emotional support. Common issues that concern people with lupus include dealing with fatigue; changes in your physical abilities; depression; and side effects of medication used to treat lupus.