What is Pediatric Lupus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a long-term, autoimmune disease. This is the most common type of lupus. It is what most people are referring to when they use the term “lupus.”
Normally, the immune system protects the body by making antibodies to fight off different things. These can include viruses, bacteria and other foreign substances. With lupus, an abnormal immune system makes antibodies that attack healthy tissue. This leads to pain and inflammation. Lupus can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain and other organs.
Between 1.5 million and 2 million Americans have some form of lupus. This includes 5,000 to 10,000 children, according to Lupus Foundation of America estimates. Lupus can be mild to severe in children. Children are more likely to have kidney and brain involvement than adults.
Women make up 90% of lupus cases. It can occur at any age. Mostly, it is diagnosed in young women ages 15 to 44. In the U.S., lupus occurs more among African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic-Latinos and Native Americans. African Americans and Hispanic-Latinos tend to develop lupus at a younger age than white Americans. They also have more severe symptoms.
Lupus can be managed well for most children. Most kids who live with the disease can lead healthy and active lives. The key is early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and preventive therapies.
