About Lupus

Lupus is a complex disease, and its history, which spans centuries, is just as complex – an amazing story of discovery from 400 BC to the present.  Read on for a brief outline of the history of lupus. Introduction The History of Lupus The Classical Period The Neoclassical Period The Modern Period In Conclusion Introduction…

Lupus is such a complex and poorly understood disease that it can be difficult for patients and healthcare providers to even talk about, much less treat.  So, researchers at the Duke Lupus Clinic have proposed a new approach that may hold the key to better conversations – and even better science – when it comes…

When B cells and T cells don’t know when to quit – the result – is lupus.  Both are specialized blood cells that are critical for a healthy immune system, but they also cause the damage that comes with lupus.  Read on to learn more about how these cells are supposed to defend the body,…

Finding the right words to put living with lupus in perspective can be difficult.   Spoon Theory to the rescue! What is Spoon Theory? Who is a Spoonie? Life as a Spoonie In Conclusion What is Spoon Theory? In 2003, Christine Miserandino created The Spoon Theory to explain what life is like for someone living…

From ulcers and dry-mouth, to tooth decay and gum disease, lupus can significantly affect your oral and dental health. Read more about the surprisingly complex relationship between lupus and a healthy smile!   Introduction Signs and Symptoms of Oral and Dental Health Issues in Lupus Causes of Oral and Dental Health Issues in Lupus Oral…

You’re in remission – that is fantastic! So why do you feel so guilty? Keep reading and learn more about lupus remission guilt – how to understand it and do your best to manage the feeling. Introduction What is Lupus Remission Guilt? Shame vs. Guilt in Lupus Remission Managing Lupus Remission Guilt In Conclusion  …

Lupus afflicts approximately 5 million people worldwide. Learn more about this chronic illness and how it impacts those who receive the diagnosis. Introduction What causes SLE? How can SLE affect the body systemically? What are the symptoms of SLE? Diagnosing SLE Managing and Treating SLE In Conclusion Introduction Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic…

The American College of Rheumatology’s (ACR), in 1997, approved a specific set of criteria for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Recently, however, in collaboration with the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), these criteria have been significantly revised. Read on to learn more about these important changes and how they can affect how lupus…

Commonly characterized by dry eyes and mouth, Sjögren’s syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect up to 15% of those diagnosed with lupus.  Keep reading to learn more about this complex condition and how it overlaps with SLE. Introduction Causes of Sjögren’s Syndrome Sjögren’s Syndrome as an Overlap of SLE Symptoms of Sjögren’s…

Scleroderma is one of the most common “overlap diseases” for those living with lupus, with about 20% of those with scleroderma also having lupus.  Learn about the complexities of scleroderma including its symptoms, possible complications and the most common ways to manage this autoimmune disease. Introduction Types of Scleroderma Symptoms of Scleroderma Causes of Scleroderma…