Causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Numerous studies are focused on understanding the underlying causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly referred to as lupus or systemic lupus erythematosus. Despite extensive research, the primary cause of lupus remains unknown. However, it is categorized among the autoimmune diseases, indicating that it arises from complications within the immune system. Normally, the immune system functions to protect the body against infections and diseases. When pathogens such as bacteria and viruses invade, the immune system responds by dispatching white blood cells and antibodies to combat them. In the case of lupus, however, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy cells, tissues, and organs.
Researchers have suggested that lupus results from a combination of various factors. The likelihood of developing this condition increases when certain genetic mutations coexist with at least one environmental trigger. Notably, some of the genetic mutations linked to lupus are found on the X chromosome. The X chromosome harbors a vast array of genetic information; whereas females typically possess two X chromosomes, males carry one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. These genetic mutations disrupt the normal instructions carried by specific genes, hindering the body’s ability to perform certain functions. In lupus patients, mutations often affect genes involved in regulating immune system functions, which may explain the immune dysregulation observed in individuals with lupus.
Risk Factors for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Several factors may elevate the risk of developing lupus. The most significant include:
- Age: Lupus is commonly diagnosed and its symptoms usually appear in individuals between the ages of 15 and 45, which corresponds to the reproductive years for women.
- Gender: Research by the United States National Institutes of Health indicates that females are at a higher risk of developing lupus compared to males. This disparity may be attributed to the influence of female hormones, particularly during reproductive years when hormone levels peak.
- Ethnicity: Studies show that the incidence of lupus is higher among African American women than Caucasian women. Additionally, women from certain ethnic backgrounds, including Hispanic, Asian, and Native American, face an increased risk. Moreover, the severity of the disease is more pronounced among African American and Hispanic women.
- Family Health History: Individuals with relatives suffering from lupus have a heightened risk of developing the disease themselves.
Triggers for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
As previously mentioned, specific genetic factors contribute to the onset of lupus. Additionally, several environmental factors can trigger the appearance or worsening of lupus symptoms. These factors include:
- UV Exposure: Ultraviolet radiation from sources like sunlight or fluorescent lamps can lead to the development of skin lesions associated with lupus and may provoke an internal response in susceptible individuals.
- Medications: Certain medications may trigger lupus symptoms. Discontinuing these medications often results in symptom improvement, though rare cases have been documented where symptoms persist post-discontinuation. Notable drugs that may induce lupus symptoms include procainamide, hydralazine, and isoniazid. Other medication categories, such as anti-seizure medications and antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, cloxacillin), may also contribute to symptom exacerbation. Furthermore, some medications increase sun sensitivity, thus triggering lupus; examples include tetracycline and sulfa drugs.
- Infections: Exposure to infections, such as colds or viral illnesses, can catalyze the onset of lupus symptoms in certain individuals.
- Injuries: Particularly traumatic injuries can serve as a trigger.
- Emotional Stress: Experiencing emotional events or life challenges (e.g., divorce, illness, or the loss of a family member) may activate lupus.
- Psychological Stress: Stress associated with surgical procedures, physical trauma, pregnancy, or childbirth can also act as a trigger.
- Exposure to Specific Conditions: High levels of fatigue and exhaustion may contribute to symptom flare-ups.
- Smoking: Some studies suggest a correlation between increased lupus cases over recent decades and heightened tobacco exposure.
Video on the Causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
The following video discusses the causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: