Drug Warning

In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned that mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept, Myfortic) should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause miscarriages and birth defects.

Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Overview

SLE is an autoimmune disease that causes a chronic inflammatory condition. The inflammation triggered by SLE affects many organs in the body, including skin, joints, kidneys, lung, and nervous system. Women, especially African-American and Asian women, are at highest risk for developing SLE.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Not all patients with SLE experience the same symptoms. The most common symptoms are joint pain, skin rash, and fever. Symptoms can develop slowly or appear suddenly. Many patients with SLE have 'flares,' in which symptoms suddenly worsen and then disappear for long periods of time. Diagnosing SLE is complicated because symptoms vary widely and can resemble other conditions. A doctor will base an SLE diagnosis on certain specific criteria including symptom history and the results of blood tests for antinuclear antibodies.

Treatment

No drug can cure SLE, but many different drugs can help control symptoms and relieve discomfort. The choice of drugs depends on the severity of the condition as well as other factors. Patients with mild SLE may be helped by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while patients with more severe SLE may require corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. Researchers are working to develop new drugs and treatments for SLE.

Living with SLE

Patients can make lifestyle changes to help cope with SLE. These include:

• Avoid excessive sunlight exposure, and wear sunscreen (ultraviolet light is the one of the main triggers of flares).
• Get plenty of rest (fatigue is another common SLE symptom).
• Engage in regular light-to-moderate exercise to help fight fatigue and heart disease, and to keep joints flexible.