Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (known as lupus) is an inflammatory disease that affects organs throughout the body. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, triggered when the immune system produces abnormal antibodies that attack the connective tissue of the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, heart and central nervous system. Blood disorders also occurs in most afflicted children.

About 15 percent of lupus cases occur in children, who often are affected more severely than adults. A syndrome similar to lupus often occurs in newborns whose mothers have lupus.

WHEN SHOULD I SUSPECT THAT MY CHILD HAS LUPUS?
The first symptoms of lupus are nonspecific. They include fever, fatigue and weight loss lasting for several months. More specific symptoms then emerge. The most common of these are pain in the joints and a butterfly-shaped rash on the bridge of the nose and cheeks. Other symptoms include dry and brittle hair (sometimes hair loss); skin pallor or blueness; sensitivity to cold, especially in the hands and feet; and patches of reddish skin on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. In addition, the kidneys, heart, lungs, liver or central nervous system may be involved.

HOW CAN THE PEDIATRICIAN TELL IF MY CHILD HAS LUPUS?
With the exception of the butterfly rash, all symptoms of lupus occur in several other disorders as well. Diagnosis therefore depends upon a characteristic spectrum of symptoms supported by blood tests that reveal the presence of abnormal antibodies.

WHAT CAUSES LUPUS?
Heredity seems to play an important role in its development. People with parents or siblings who have lupus are at somewhat greater risk than average. Although the exact cause has not been determined, lupus seems to result from a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences, such as infection.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
Rarely, mild cases with few symptoms besides arthritis are treated with aspirin alone, although more powerful anti-inflammatory drugs, including corticosteroids, usually are required. Cyclophosphamide, an immunosuppressive drug, may be needed in cases of severe kidney disease.

Once it appears, lupus usually remains a lifelong affliction. With modern therapies, however, lupus can be managed successfully.

CARING FOR A CHILD WITH LUPUS
To help a child with lupus:

• Encourage adequate rest.

• Protect the child from emotional stress.

• Observe the dietary restrictions recommended by your doctor or nutritionist.

• Avoid sunlight if it increases symptoms.

• Avoid activities that trigger or aggravate symptoms.

• Use physical therapy to optimize muscle function.

• Make sure the child wears warm, layered clothing in the winter, avoids swimming in cold water and avoids holding cold objects.

GETTING HELP
Call your doctor if your child:

• Complains of joint pain or develops a limp

• Develops a rash on the cheeks and across the bridge of the nose

Excerpt from THE DISNEY ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BABY & CHILD CARE, © 1995 DSH Communications, Inc. This material is based on current medical research and, to the best of the editors' knowledge and understanding, is accurate and valid. However the reader should not use information contained in this material to alter a medically prescribed regimen or as a form of self-treatment, without seeking the advice of a licensed physician.