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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (S.L.E.)

Overview

In its most severe Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a potentially fatal dysfunction of the auto-immune system. The body's multitude of immune agents mistakenly identifies its own tissues as the enemy. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is a less serious form, and drug-induced LE (DILE) is transient.

S.L.E. Is primarily a disease of young women peaking between 15-20 years, but 40% may occur after the age of 60 years. It is an unpredictable disorder capable of long remissions and sudden unexplained flare-ups.

There are many possible causes of this disorder including genetic predisposition - chromosome 6 of HLA (human leukocyte area) - chromosome 1 (less commonly).Environmental factors may play a critical role in triggering S.L.E. These factors include:

• Infections
• Nutritional deficits
• Stress

Cells that operate in this disorder:

• Cells that focus on detecting and labeling antigens
• Cells that choose the appropriate disease-fighting agent
• Complement-system that regulates and clears up excess antibodies

If antibodies are in excess, and mediating substances are low, inflammation may be excessive and unchecked. In S.L.E., antibodies mis-identify as a foreign invader the body's own self-antigens.

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Symptoms

• Photosensitivity
• Mouth ulcers
• Butterfly rashes
• Discoid lesions
• Joint inflammation
• CNS-lesions
• Kidneys
• Lesions of heart and lungs
• Blood test abnormalities

Affected Areas

• Joints
• Kidney
• Heart (pericardium)
• Lungs (pleura)
• Skin
• Mouth/Nose (ulcers)
• C.N.S.
• Blood (anemia and leukemia)
• G.I. Tract
• Vascular System (vasculitis)
• Immune System (susceptible to infection)
• Bones (osteoporosis)

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Treatment

Medical management will be determined for each specific case but the following are common treatment methods used at the Houston Wellness Clinic:

• Steroids
• Immuno-suppressive therapies
• Intravenous immunoglobulins
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
• Antimalarial medication
• Removal of drug-inducing S.L.E.
• Thalidomide
• Hormones
• Testosterone Gastro-intestinal tract health – enzymes, probiotics, and liver support
• Eliminate environment toxins
• Mood elevations
• Hydrogen peroxide therapy

You will want to avoid environmental triggers such as; aromatic amines (hair dyes), silicone/silica dust, alfalfa sprouts, hydrazines (found in mushroom and tobacco smoke), tatrazines (used as food preservatives in food dyes), stress

It’s important to get ultraviolet light – A and B, rest, exercise – aerobic exercises, build endurance and deter muscle atrophy and take nutritional aids – specific vitamins and minerals

Nutrition

• E.F.A.’s (EPA/DHA)
• Low saturated fats
• Calorie, fat, and protein restriction
• Antioxidants
• DHEA

Overall, Dr. Allibone determines treatment options based on a highly individualized basis studying medical history, tests, lifestyle, etc. Using this specialized method, the clinic can put each patient on the path to optimal health.

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