Lupus
Overview
Lupus, an autoimmune disorder, can cause inflammation throughout your body, including in your joints, skin, blood vessels and organs, such as the kidneys. While the cause of lupus is unknown, a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors are thought to contribute to its presence.
More than 16,000 new cases are reported each year in the United States. Lupus most often affects women but 10 percent of patients are men.
Medications and lifestyle changes can help control inflammation and minimize organ damage.
Basics
Researchers Explore Origins of Lupus, Find Reason for Condition's Prevalence Among Women
Why does lupus occur more often in women? Researchers have found an answer involving the X chromosome and a genetic molecule once thought to protect from the disease.