LAUSR

1.1 What is it? Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various organs of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood, kidneys and central nervous system. "Chronic" means that it can last for a long time. "Autoimmune" means that there is a disorder of the immune system, which, instead of protecting the body from bacteria and viruses, attacks the patient’s own tissues. The name "systemic lupus erythematosus" dates back to the early 20th century. "Systemic" means that it affects many organs of the body. The word "lupus" is derived from the Latin word for "wolf" and it refers to the characteristic butterfly-like rash on the face, which is similar to the white markings on a wolf’s face. "Erythematosus" in Greek means "red" and it refers to the redness of the skin rash.