Lupus: Symptoms, Family History, and When to Test - Internal Medicine

More Info

---

Understanding lupus, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is crucial, especially given your family history and the symptoms you've described. Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body.

Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus can manifest in a variety of ways, and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include:
1. Skin Rashes: The classic "butterfly rash" across the cheeks and nose is often associated with lupus, but other rashes, like the ones you described (raised, itchy bumps or circular lesions), can also occur.

2. Joint Pain and Swelling: Many individuals with lupus experience arthritis-like symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.

3. Fatigue: A common complaint among lupus patients is a persistent feeling of tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.

4. Fever: Unexplained fevers can be a sign of inflammation or infection.

5. Photosensitivity: Many lupus patients are sensitive to sunlight, which can exacerbate skin rashes and other symptoms.

6. Hair Loss: Thinning hair or patches of hair loss can occur.

7. Mouth or Nose Ulcers: Painful sores can develop in the mouth or nose.

8. Kidney Issues: Lupus can affect kidney function, leading to swelling in the legs or high blood pressure.

9. Neurological Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, and memory problems can also be present.

Given your family history of lupus, it is understandable that you are concerned about your symptoms. The skin issues you mentioned, particularly the raised bumps and circular lesions, could potentially be related to lupus, but they could also be due to other dermatological conditions, especially considering your recent move to a drier climate.


Family History and Testing
Having a family history of lupus increases your risk of developing the disease, but it does not guarantee that you will. The presence of symptoms, even if they are mild, should prompt a discussion with a healthcare provider.
Testing for lupus typically involves:
1. Blood Tests: These can include a complete blood count (CBC), kidney and liver function tests, and specific autoantibody tests (such as ANA - antinuclear antibodies, anti-dsDNA, and anti-Smith antibodies).

2. Urinalysis: To check for kidney involvement.

3. Skin Biopsy: If skin lesions are present, a biopsy can help determine if they are related to lupus or another condition.


When to Test
If you are experiencing symptoms that are concerning, especially given your family history, it is advisable to consult a rheumatologist or your primary care physician. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your family history and determine if testing is warranted. Early diagnosis and management are key in lupus to prevent complications and manage symptoms effectively.


Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may not fully align with the classic presentation of lupus, your family history and the nature of your skin issues warrant further investigation. It is essential to seek medical advice to clarify your symptoms and potentially undergo testing. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals with lupus. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially with a condition as complex as lupus.