Home > Medical Reference > Patient Education

Systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder which may affect many organ systems including the skin, joints, and internal organs. The disease may be mild or severe and lifethreatening. Women are disproportionately affected.

Reviewed last on: 5/31/2009
Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.