Understanding the Different Types of Lupus

Lupus is a complex and often misunderstood autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest in various ways, and because it mimics other conditions, it can be challenging to diagnose. Lupus is not a one-size-fits-all disease; there are different types, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges. Understanding the different types of lupus can help those affected, their loved ones, and even the general public better navigate this condition.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and brain. The symptoms of lupus can vary widely from person to person, making it a particularly challenging disease to diagnose and treat.

I wanted to write a quick post about the different types of Lupus. I was surprised to hear some people didn’t know there were multiple types of Lupus and I thought I might as well make this post for family members of those with Lupus or even people with Lupus who are curious about the other types of Lupus there is. Let’s go ahead and jump into it!

There are several types of lupus, each with its own distinct characteristics:

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common and most serious form of lupus. “Systemic” means that it can affect multiple systems and organs in the body. The symptoms of SLE can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Joint Pain and Swelling: One of the most common symptoms, often affecting the hands, wrists, and knees.
• Skin Rashes: The classic “butterfly” rash across the cheeks and nose is a hallmark of SLE, though other types of rashes can also occur.
• Fatigue: Profound and persistent fatigue is a common issue for those with SLE.
• Kidney Involvement: SLE can cause inflammation of the kidneys, known as lupus nephritis, which can lead to kidney damage.
• Heart and Lung Issues: Inflammation can affect the heart (pericarditis) and lungs (pleuritis), leading to chest pain and difficulty breathing.
• Neurological Symptoms: SLE can also affect the brain and nervous system, leading to headaches, confusion, seizures, and mood disorders.

The severity and symptoms of SLE can fluctuate, with periods of flares (when symptoms worsen) and remission (when symptoms improve or disappear).

2. Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: primarily affects the skin. There are three main subtypes:

• Chronic Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (Discoid Lupus): This form of lupus is characterized by round, red, scaly patches on the skin, usually appearing on the face, scalp, and ears. These lesions can cause scarring and permanent skin damage, such as hair loss in affected areas.
• Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (SCLE): SCLE presents as red, scaly, ring-shaped, or psoriasis-like lesions on the skin, often triggered by sun exposure. Unlike discoid lupus, SCLE typically doesn’t leave scars, but it can cause skin discoloration.
• Acute Cutaneous Lupus: This type is associated with the “butterfly” rash of SLE, which appears across the nose and cheeks. This rash often appears suddenly after sun exposure and can last for days or weeks.

While cutaneous lupus primarily affects the skin, it’s important to note that some people with this form of lupus may also develop SLE.

3. Drug-Induced Lupus: Drug-induced lupus Erythematosus (DILE) is a condition similar to SLE but triggered by certain medications. Unlike SLE, drug-induced lupus usually resolves once the medication causing the reaction is discontinued. Common drugs associated with DILE include certain blood pressure medications, anti-seizure medications, and antibiotics. Symptoms of DILE typically resemble those of SLE, such as:

• Joint Pain: Often the most prominent symptom.
• Muscle Pain: Myalgia can occur along with joint pain.
• Fever: Mild fever can accompany the onset of symptoms.
• Fatigue: General fatigue is common, though often less severe than in SLE.
• Serositis: Inflammation of the lining around the heart or lungs, causing chest pain.

DILE does not usually affect the kidneys or central nervous system, and symptoms generally resolve within a few weeks to months after stopping the offending medication.

4. Neonatal Lupus: Neonatal Lupus is a rare condition that affects infants of women who have lupus or certain other autoimmune conditions. It’s important to note that neonatal lupus is not true lupus but rather a condition caused by the transfer of certain antibodies from the mother to the baby during pregnancy. Symptoms in newborns with neonatal lupus may include:

• Skin Rash: Often appearing within the first few weeks of life and typically clearing up within six months without permanent effects.
• Liver Issues: Some infants may experience liver problems, such as elevated liver enzymes.
• Low Blood Cell Counts: This can include anemia, low platelets, or low white blood cell counts.
• Congenital Heart Block: A serious but rare complication where the heart’s electrical system is affected, potentially leading to heart rhythm problems.

Most symptoms of neonatal lupus are temporary and resolve on their own, but congenital heart block can be permanent and may require medical intervention.

5. Lupus Nephritis: While lupus nephritis is technically a manifestation of SLE rather than a distinct type of lupus, it is significant enough to warrant separate mention. Lupus Nephritis is a type of kidney inflammation caused by SLE, and it can lead to serious kidney damage over time. Symptoms of lupus nephritis may include:

• Foamy Urine: Indicative of protein in the urine, a sign of kidney damage.
• Swelling: Particularly in the legs, ankles, and feet, due to fluid retention.
• High Blood Pressure: Often a result of kidney impairment.
• Kidney Failure: In severe cases, untreated lupus nephritis can lead to end-stage renal disease, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Lupus nephritis is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent kidney damage.

Lupus is a multifaceted disease with several distinct types, each affecting the body in different ways. Whether it’s the widespread effects of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), the skin-specific manifestations of Cutaneous Lupus, or the drug-triggered symptoms of Drug-Induced Lupus, understanding the different types of lupus is crucial for managing the condition effectively.

Make sure to check out our other Lupus-related post by clicking here!