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Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing widespread inflammation and damage. Understanding the different types helps patients and healthcare providers develop appropriate treatment strategies for this complex condition affecting approximately 1.5 million Americans.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is the most common and serious form. It can affect multiple organ systems including joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. Symptoms vary widely but often include extreme fatigue, joint pain and swelling, butterfly-shaped facial rash, fever, and photosensitivity. Kidney involvement, called lupus nephritis, occurs in about half of SLE patients and requires aggressive treatment to prevent kidney failure.

Cutaneous lupus primarily affects the skin. Discoid lupus erythematosus causes circular, raised, scaly patches that can lead to scarring and permanent hair loss if occurring on the scalp. Subacute cutaneous lupus produces red, ring-shaped lesions on sun-exposed areas. While less serious than SLE, some patients with cutaneous lupus eventually develop systemic disease.

Drug-induced lupus occurs as a reaction to certain medications, particularly some blood pressure drugs and antibiotics. Symptoms resemble SLE but typically resolve after stopping the triggering medication. This form rarely affects major organs like kidneys or brain.

Neonatal lupus is a rare condition affecting infants born to mothers with certain antibodies. Most symptoms are temporary, though some babies develop serious heart complications requiring lifelong monitoring.

Lupus diagnosis involves blood tests checking for antinuclear antibodies and other markers, plus clinical symptom evaluation. While incurable, modern treatments including immunosuppressants, antimalarials, and biologics help most patients manage symptoms effectively. Regular medical monitoring is essential for detecting and addressing organ involvement early.