Aquino, Ma. Samantha T.

September 24, 2020

BSN – 1B A&P – Case study 2

Introduction:

Systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE is a systemic autoimmune disease that

occurs when the body’s immune system becomes agitated and attacks normal, healthy
tissues. There are other kinds of lupus, but systemic lupus erythematosus is the most
common type of lupus. SLE is a chronic disease with stages of worsening symptoms that
alternate with periods of minor signs. People who have SLE can live a normal life but are
then accompanied by treatment.

Signs (Objective) :

A person with systemic lupus erythematosus could lose appetite, experience

weight loss, skin rashes, fever, unusual hair loss, photosensitivity, fatigue, and troubled
breathing. The patient could also have mouth, nose, throat sores and can be easily
bruised.

Symptoms (Subjective) :

A person with systemic lupus erythematosus could experience swollen glands and
lymph nodes. Joint pain is also one of the symptoms of SLE, like stiffening and swelling
of joints.

Causes:

Systemic lupus erythematosus’ exact cause is unknown, but several factors have
been associated with the disease. The following aspects related to SLE are genetics,
environment, hormones, particular medicine, and weak immune system. But if you have
SLE, the immune system also mistakenly attacks and damages the body’s tissues.
Pathophysiology:

Genetic/ hereditary Environmental factors

Genes or environment interaction

damage the cell and cause
apoptosis

Release of nuclear antigens

The immune response releases

antinuclear antibodies and
nuclear antigens that floats
around

Antigen and antibody will deposit Antinuclear antibodies and

in tissues and organs nuclear antibodies targets the
bloodstream WBC, RBC and phospholipid
bilayer

Phagocytosis and destruction

Tissue damages and
inflammation occurs

Type III hypersensitivity reaction Type II hypersensitivity reaction

Systemic lupus erythematosus

(SLE)
Risk Factors:

Many factors could be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, but the most
recognized risk whose sex is a female, age range from the childbearing years; 15 to 45
years old, and hereditary in the family’s genes. SLE is common in a particular race, such
as African-Americans, Hispanics, and Asian-American. Environmental risks could also
trigger systemic lupus erythematosus, like alcohol absorption, smoking, UV light, viral
infections, and hypertension. Taking medication drugs like procainamide, hydralazine,
and isoniazid can be a huge factor in developing SLE.

Complications:

Systemic lupus erythematosus could develop into several complications such as

inflammation in the blood and blood vessels, cancer, bone tissue death (avascular
necrosis), stroke, kidney failure, skin scarring, joint deformities, heart attack, cataracts,
and pregnancy complications. SLE could also lead to depression and anxiety.

Preventions:

To prevent the systemic lupus erythematosus, avoid being too much exposed in
the sun, and wear sunscreen and protective clothing when going outdoors. A patient
should rest and sleep approximately 7 to 9 hours per night and take all the prescribed
medicines. Staying away from people who have colds and other infectious diseases is
also a must. A patient with SLE should also develop stress management techniques like
yoga and meditation to help him/her relax. Lastly, eating a healthy and proper diet is a
must, such as foods rich in vitamins, protein, and antioxidants.
Photographs related to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

An example of skin rashes commonly called butterfly rash in the buccal area.

Digital poster about symptoms of SLE.

Famous celebrities diagnosed with lupus. Seal - a famous singer (on the left) and
Selena Gomez – a famous artist and singer (on the right).
References:

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Encyclopedia, M., & erythematosus, S. (2020). Systemic lupus erythematosus:
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(23 May 2016). Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) - causes, symptoms, diagnosis &
pathology. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0junqD4BLH4&t=518s
(29 January 2019). Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) | NCLEX RN Review.
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