Lupus
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Causes of Lupus
Lupus is a complex disease, and the cause of lupus is unknown. You can't catch lupus from another person, and it isn't related to AIDS. More than one factor is likely to play a role in getting lupus. Researchers are looking at these factors:
- Genetic - The fact that lupus can run in families indicates that its development has a genetic basis. Recent research suggests that genetics plays an important role, although no specific "lupus gene" has been identified yet. Studies suggest that several different genes may be involved in determining a person's likelihood of developing the disease, which tissues and organs are affected, and the severity of disease. However, scientists believe that genes alone do not determine who gets lupus and that other factors also play a role.
- Environment - sunlight, stress, certain medications, and viruses might trigger symptoms in people who are prone to getting lupus.
- Hormones - lupus is more common in women during childbearing years.
- Immune System Problems - In lupus, the body's immune system does not work as it should.
References:
1) The National Women's Health Information Center - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office on Women's Health - May 2008 - www.4woman.gov
2) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) - Information Clearinghouse - National Institutes of Health - Department of Health and Human Services - NIH Publication No. 03-4178 - September 1997 - Revised August 2003 - www.niams.nih.gov
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