Lupusul

Lupusul, in Romanian medical usage, refers to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks multiple organs. It often has flares and remissions and can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, nervous system, and blood.

Etiology and pathogenesis: The disease is multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, and environmental triggers such as sun exposure or infections. Autoantibodies (ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith) form immune complexes that deposit in tissues and activate complement, driving inflammation.

Clinical features: Common symptoms include fatigue, arthritis, malar rash with photosensitivity, oral ulcers, and serositis. Internal organ involvement may include lupus nephritis, cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Diagnosis: Classification criteria (ACR/SLICC) combine clinical signs with serology. Positive ANA is common; anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith support the diagnosis. Low C3/C4, abnormal urinalysis, and kidney biopsy may be used to assess organ involvement.

Treatment and prognosis: There is no cure, but the disease can be controlled with individualized therapy. Mild cases may use hydroxychloroquine and NSAIDs; more active disease often requires corticosteroids and immunosuppressants (mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine). Biologics such as belimumab are options in some cases. Sun protection and regular monitoring are essential; pregnancy requires specialist care.

Etymology and usage: Lupus comes from Latin for wolf. In Romanian medical language lupusul is the definite form of lupus used to denote the disease, while lupus erythematosus remains common in international literature.