Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

lupus erythematosis, systemic
A form of lupus
that has a tendency to involve the internal organs.
Abbreviated SLE. Eleven criteria have been estab-
lished for the diagnosis of SLE, including the pres-
ence of a malar (“butterfly”) rash and/or other
discoid skin rash; skin rash in reaction to sunlight
exposure; ulceration of the mucus lining of the
mouth, nose, or throat; two or more swollen, tender
joints of the extremities (arthritis); inflammation of
the lining tissue around the heart or lungs (peri-
carditis/pleuritis), usually associated with chest pain
with breathing; abnormal amounts of protein or cel-
lular elements in the urine, caused by kidney abnor-
malities; brain irritation manifested by seizures,
severe mood swings, and/or psychosis; low counts of
white or red blood cells, or platelets; abnormal
lumbar vertebrae
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results on immune-system tests, including anti-DNA
or anti-Sm (Smith) antibodies, falsely positive blood
test for syphilis, anticardiolipin antibodies, lupus
anticoagulant, or a positive lupus erythematosis prep
test; and positive results for antinuclear antibodies
(ANAs) on a blood test. SLE is also often character-
ized by fatigue. Psychiatric symptoms closely resem-
ble those of a bipolar disorder, which sometimes
leads to misdiagnosis. SLE is eight times more com-
mon in women than in men. The causes of SLE are
unknown, but heredity, infectious disease, ultraviolet
light, and drugs may all play a role. Treatment is
directed toward decreasing inflammation and mod-
erating the level of autoimmune activity, and it can
range from administration of anti-inflammatory
medication to use of chemotherapy. Persons with
SLE can help prevent flare-ups of their disease by
avoiding sun exposure and by not abruptly discon-
tinuing medications. Medication can help treat spe-
cific symptoms as well, including reducing skin rash,
irritation, and scarring; reducing joint inflammation;
and treating psychiatric symptoms. See also 
lupus.