Definition of Drug-induced lupus erythematosus:

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorder that is brought on by a reaction to medication.

See also: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus resembles systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It results from a hypersensitivity reaction to a medication. The drug may react with cell materials, causing the body to form antibodies that attack the body's own healthy cells.

Several medications are known to cause drug-induced lupus. They include:

• Chlorpromazine
• Hydralazine
• Isoniazid
• Methyldopa
• Penicillamine
• Procainamide
• Quinidine
• Sulfasalazine

Symptoms tend to occur after taking the drug for at least 3 to 6 months.

Persons with drug-induced lupus erythematosus may have symptoms that affect the joints (arthritis), heart, and lungs. Other symptoms associated with SLE, such as lupus nephritis and neurological disease, are rare.

Drug-induced lupus affects men and women equally.