Lupus
Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.
What is Lupus?
Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue throughout the body. It can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. Lupus is known as 'the great imitator' because its symptoms often mimic those of other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. The disease follows a pattern of flares (active disease) and remissions (quiet periods). With proper management, most people with lupus can live full, active lives.
Common Symptoms
- Butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Skin rashes that worsen with sun exposure
- Fever without a known cause
- Hair loss or thinning
- Mouth or nose sores
- Chest pain when breathing deeply
- Swelling in legs or around eyes (kidney involvement)
- Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers turning white or blue in cold)
Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.
How is Lupus Diagnosed?
Lupus diagnosis requires careful evaluation of symptoms, physical examination, and multiple laboratory tests. Key tests include antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), complement levels (C3, C4), complete blood count, and urinalysis. Because lupus can mimic many other conditions, Dr. Forouzesh conducts a comprehensive evaluation to distinguish lupus from other autoimmune diseases and determine which organs are affected.
Treatment Options
Antimalarial Medications
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is a cornerstone of lupus treatment that helps control disease activity, reduce flares, and protect organs long-term.
Immunosuppressive Medications
Medications like mycophenolate or azathioprine that calm the overactive immune system, especially when kidneys or other organs are involved.
Biologic Therapies
Targeted treatments like belimumab (Benlysta) that reduce specific immune system activity driving lupus inflammation.
Corticosteroids
Used to quickly control inflammation during flares. Dr. Forouzesh aims to minimize steroid use to reduce long-term side effects.
Sun Protection & Lifestyle
UV protection is essential for lupus patients. Guidance on sun safety, stress management, and healthy lifestyle habits to reduce flare triggers.
Key Statistics
1.5 Million
Americans living with lupus
Source: Lupus Foundation of America
9 out of 10
Lupus patients are women
Source: NIH/NIAMS
15-44
Most common age of diagnosis (years)
Source: CDC
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Expert Care?
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.