What Are the Causes and Characteristics of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?
The causes of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) include endocrine abnormalities, environmental factors, immune dysfunction, psychological stress, and genetic factors. The main characteristic of SLE is its ability to cause dysfunction in multiple systems and organs, such as facial and limb rashes, joint swelling and pain, organ dysfunction, including pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, renal damage, and low blood count.
1. Endocrine Abnormalities: Women during pregnancy and lactation experience significant changes in hormonal levels, which increase the incidence and severity of SLE. Therefore, endocrine abnormalities are considered one of the factors related to the development of SLE.
2. Environmental Factors: Severe environmental pollution is also associated with the development of SLE. People living in heavy industrial areas, where water and food sources are severely contaminated, and who have poor physical constitutions, are more susceptible to SLE. Additionally, exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight can cause SLE to recur or worsen.
3. Immune Dysfunction: SLE is also classified as an immune system disease. Abnormal immune function is the underlying factor that leads to its occurrence. People who already have other immune system diseases may have a higher incidence of SLE.
4. Psychological Stress: High psychological stress can weaken a person's physical constitution, leading to dysfunction in multiple systems and increasing the risk of developing SLE.
5. Genetic Factors: If someone in a family has SLE, their descendants will have a higher chance of developing the disease compared to the general population. The risk is further elevated by other adverse factors.
SLE is an autoimmune disease that predominantly affects young women. Its main characteristics include dysfunction in multiple systems and organs, such as facial and limb rashes, joint swelling and pain, and organ dysfunction, including pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, renal damage, and low blood count. Topical ointments can be used to alleviate symptoms such as facial butterfly-shaped erythema and rashes caused by finger vasculitis. Commonly used ointments include corticosteroid creams like Eucerin, which can control the progression of rashes or promote their resolution. Immunosuppressive ointments, such as Tacrolimus ointment, also have typical therapeutic effects in controlling the progression or resolution of rashes.
