Children can also get systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

The lupus butterfly refers to the rash that spreads its ‘wings’ across the cheeks of patients with the autoimmune disorder. — Filepic

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus, is an autoimmune disease that happens when the body’s defence system, which is supposed to help our body fight infections, turns against us and attacks our own organs instead.

SLE can attack vital organs such as the kidneys, brain, blood, skin, joints and lungs.

It is a chronic disease and can lead to death if left untreated.

While SLE tends to appear during adulthood, it can also occur in children, especially in girls going through puberty.

Typically, a child with SLE will have a more severe illness compared to adults.

SLE can cause different symptoms depending on the affected organ.

If the kidneys are attacked, the patient will show symptoms like body swelling, foamy urine and high blood pressure.

If the brain is attacked, the patient may experience headaches, seizures or confusion that causes them to act differently.

Other symptoms that may occur in SLE patients include prolonged fever, low appetite, decreased body weight and fatigue.

They may also show symptoms like a specific facial rash (a malar/butterfly rash), hair loss, ulcers on the palate, and sensitivity to sunlight.

There is no one specific cause of SLE, but factors such as genetics, hormones, as well as exposure to certain infections, medications or sunlight can increase the risk of developing SLE in susceptible individuals.

Unfortunately, it cannot be prevented.

Individuals suspected as having lupus symptoms should consult medical experts.

Usually, this disease is diagnosed and treated by autoimmune disease experts, also known as rheumatologists.

Doctors will conduct a thorough medical history; full body examination; blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid tests; as well as radiological examinations like X-rays, ultrasound and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), depending on the affected organs.

Patients with signs of kidney damage may require a kidney biopsy.

Medications are prescribed to patients depending on the severity of the disease.

Generally, SLE patients require drugs that suppress the immune system like steroids, cytotoxic medications like cyclophosphamide, and biologicals like rituximab.

Patients suffering from severe kidney damage may require haemodialysis and blood pressure medications.

Some patients may also require blood transfusions.

SLE patients may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements.

All SLE patients need to avoid exposure to strong sunlight by wearing hats and long-sleeved shirts, and applying sunscreen.

Additionally, they are also advised to avoid contact with people suffering from infectious diseases like chickenpox and tuberculosis, as they are more vulnerable to infections.

Even though there is no cure for this disease, most patients will be able to control it with treatment.

Patients who manage to control their disease will be able to experience a normal life similar to other children.

They can go to school, play sports, continue their studies up to college or university, have a career, get married, and build their own family in the future.

Hence, it is important for these children to get proper treatment and not just give up when they are diagnosed with SLE.

Dr La Reina Sangaran is a paediatrician. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Paediatric Association’s Positive Parenting programme in collaboration with expert partners. For further information, please email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.