Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body.
Due to its complex and varied symptoms, lupus is a potentially serious illness that often goes undetected. To raise awareness, UGM Academic Hospital (RSA UGM) held a health education talk show titled “Get to Know Lupus: Detect Earlier, Live Better” on Wednesday (Apr. 7) at the RSA UGM rooftop.
According to internal medicine specialist Noviantoro Sunarko, MD, lupus is an autoimmune condition in which white blood cells, usually tasked with defending the body from infections, mistakenly attack the body’s cells and organs.
Lupus can affect various organs, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and brain, and may become life-threatening if not treated properly.
Sunarko explained that lupus can affect anyone, but women are at significantly higher risk.
“Approximately 90 percent of lupus patients are women between the ages of 15 and 44,” said the physician.
The exact cause of lupus remains unknown. Its symptoms often mimic those of other diseases, making diagnosis difficult and requiring a thorough medical evaluation.
Sunarko noted that lupus presents a wide range of symptoms.
“One of the early warning signs is a malar rash or butterfly rash—a red rash on the face shaped like a butterfly,” he explained.
Other symptoms may include joint inflammation, hair loss, and recurring mouth ulcers.
“However, it is important to note that these symptoms are not definitive indicators of lupus, so a medical consultation is still necessary for confirmation,” he added.
Although lupus cannot be cured or fully prevented, Sunarko emphasized that several steps can be taken to reduce the risk and manage the disease.
These include adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding known triggers, and undergoing regular medical check-ups.
Lupus treatment can involve both therapeutic and non-therapeutic approaches.
These treatments aim to relieve symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and slow disease progression.
“Even though it cannot be cured, with proper treatment and routine monitoring, lupus patients can lead normal and productive lives,” Sunarko concluded.
Author: Lazuardi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya