Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

    This is a rare disease of the immune system.  In this disease, the immune system forms antibodies against the nuclear component of its own cells. The patient makes large quantities of blood proteins called antibodies that react against the person's own tissues. This means that the immune system attacks its own healthy cells because it thinks they are bad   Because of these self-reacting antibodies, the disease is called an "auto-immune" disease. These antibodies damage tissues and lead to the many manifestations of lupus.

   Some of the most common effects of Lupus are arthritis, kidney disease, skin disease and blood disorders.  A great number of other effects and side effects of this disease can occur so it is hard to diagnose. The disease varies considerably from person to person with improvement or remission (total disappearance of symptoms) occurring between periods of active disease.   In general, this disease is not considered to be present unless testing to determine if antibodies against the nuclear elements of the cells are present (positive ANA test) and clinical signs of at least two of the common disorders are present. 

   Even then, it is hard to be sure the disease is actually the problem.  Treatment usually involves the use of immunosuppressive medications, most commonly corticosteroids such as prednisone.  Often, a second immunosuppressive agent must also be used.  Azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and cyclosporine are examples of these medications.  Lupus is not curable but it is often possible for a dog to live with it successfully.  Continuous monitoring of patients suspected of having lupus should be part of the treatment.  This is due to the possibility of another problem, the multitude of side effects that can occur and the potential for problems from the medications used to treat it.