Lupus (SLE)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect nearly any part of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, heart, blood cells, and nervous system. Because lupus can look very different from person to person, early recognition and coordinated, multidisciplinary care are essential for protecting long-term health.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our rheumatologists specialize in identifying subtle signs of lupus and developing personalized treatment strategies to prevent organ damage and improve quality of life.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Lupus symptoms often develop gradually and may come and go in cycles of flares and remission. Common signs include:
- Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Fatigue and low-grade fevers
- A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks or sensitivity to sunlight
- Mouth or nose ulcers
- Hair loss or thinning
- Swelling in the legs or frothy urine, which may indicate kidney involvement
During your evaluation, your rheumatologist at The Medical Group of New Jersey will review your symptoms, medications, and family history, and perform a thorough physical exam to assess skin, joint, and internal organ involvement.
Diagnosis
Since lupus affects multiple systems, diagnosis involves a combination of clinical assessment and specialized testing. Common diagnostic tools include:
- Autoantibody testing: ANA, anti-dsDNA, and anti-Smith antibodies to confirm autoimmune activity
- Comprehensive laboratory workup: CBC, kidney and liver function tests, urinalysis, and complement levels
- Imaging or biopsy: Kidney or skin biopsy may be performed if organ involvement is suspected
Treatment & Ongoing Management
Treatment for lupus is highly individualized, depending on which organs are affected and the severity of inflammation. Your care plan may include:
- Hydroxychloroquine: Recommended for nearly all patients to prevent flares and support long-term health
- NSAIDs: Used for mild joint or muscle pain when appropriate
- Corticosteroids: Prescribed for active flares to quickly reduce inflammation, then tapered to the lowest effective dose
- Immunosuppressive or biologic therapies: Such as mycophenolate, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, or belimumab for moderate to severe disease
- Lifestyle and preventive care: Sun protection, heart and kidney monitoring, and vaccination guidance to reduce infection risk
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our rheumatologists collaborate closely with nephrology, dermatology, and cardiology specialists to ensure comprehensive, whole-person care for every patient with lupus.
Follow-Up & Outlook
Regular follow-up visits allow early detection of flares and monitoring for organ changes. With modern therapies and coordinated care, most patients can achieve good disease control, reduce flares, and maintain active, fulfilling lives.