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Lupus an Autoimmune Disease

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Lupus an Autoimmune Disease

Human Body
Professor E.
December 2012

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) is a complex disease characterized by the appearance of autoantibodies against nuclear antigens and the involvement of multiple organ systems, including the kidneys. The exact events that trigger the onset of clinical manifestations of SLE are not yet well understood. However, research using various mouse strains impulsive and inducible lupus in the last two decades has provided insights into the role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of this disease. According to our present understanding, the immunological defects resulting in the development of SLE can be categorized into two phases: (a) systemic autoimmunity resulting in increased serum antinuclear and antiglomerular autoantibodies and (b) immunological events that occur within the target organ and result in end organ damage.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Abstract…………………………………………………………………….....2
Introduction…………………………………………………………………..4
Discussion……………………………………………………………………..5

What is lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which causes inflammation of various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints and kidneys. The body’s immune system normally makes proteins called antibodies to protect the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign materials. These foreign materials are called antigens. In an autoimmune disorder such as lupus, the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between foreign substances (antigens) and its own cells and tissues. The immune system then makes antibodies directed against “self”. These antibodies, called “auto-antibodies”, react with the “self” antigens to form immune complexes. The immune complexes build up in the tissues and can cause inflammation, injury to tissues and pain. African American, Latinos and Asians are more

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