Lupus is a chronic (long-lasting) autoimmune disease where the immune system, for unknown reasons, becomes hyperactive and attacks normal tissue. There are generally four recognized forms or types of lupus: Cutaneous (skin) Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Drug-induced Erythematosus and Neonatal Lupus. With lupus, the immune system misfires. Instead of producing protective antibodies, the auto-immune disorder begins manufacturing “auto-antibodies” which attack the patient’s own tissues.
Painless hematuria or proteinuria may often be the only presenting renal symptom. Twenty percent of all cases of lupus are diagnosed during the first 2 decades of life. The disease can affect all ages but most commonly begins from 20-45 years of age. Lupus is more common in African Americans, Hispanics and Asians. A flare in lupus is an acute increase in symptoms.