Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)

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Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease. This means that your immune system attacks your body's healthy tissues. Lupus may cause problems with your skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, nerves, or blood cells.

When you have lupus symptoms, you are having flares or relapses. When your symptoms get better, you are in remission. Lupus can't be cured, but home treatment and medicine can help control the symptoms.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.