Lupus

20 June 2025

Overview

Lupus, formally known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues throughout the body. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, lungs, and other organs. Lupus symptoms vary widely between individuals and often mimic other health conditions, making early diagnosis essential.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we offer multidisciplinary care and personalised treatment plans to help patients effectively manage the condition and maintain their quality of life.

Potential Causes

The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors:

Genetic predisposition
Hormonal changes, especially oestrogen
Sunlight exposure
Certain infections (e.g. Epstein-Barr virus)
Medications (drug-induced lupus)
Stress or trauma

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms can be intermittent and vary in severity. Common signs include:

Fatigue
Joint pain or swelling, especially in the hands and knees
Skin rashes, including a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight)
Mouth or nose ulcers
Fever not caused by infection
Hair loss
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Kidney issues (lupus nephritis)
Neurological symptoms like headaches or confusion

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lupus involves a combination of:

Blood tests, including ANA (antinuclear antibody), anti-dsDNA, and antiphospholipid antibodies
Urine tests to check for kidney involvement
Imaging scans to assess affected organs
Physical examination and detailed medical history

Diagnosis may take time due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions.

Treatment & Management

There is no cure for lupus, but the condition can be managed with appropriate medical care and lifestyle adjustments:

Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
Corticosteroids to control inflammation
Immunosuppressive agents for severe disease
Antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine
Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, stress management, and sun protection
Rehabilitation therapies, including physiotherapy and fatigue management at our specialist centre

Our holistic approach at the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital combines rheumatology expertise, rehabilitation and support to deliver complete, patient-centred care.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.