Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease which causes inflammation of various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood and kidneys. The body's immune system normally makes proteins called antibodies to protect the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign materials. These foreign materials are called ANTIGENS. In an autoimmune disorder such as Lupus, the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between foreign substances (antigens) and its own cells and tissues. …showed first 75 words of 2252 total…

…showed last 75 words of 2252 total…safer and more effective treatment methods. Overall the outlook for patients with systemic lupus is improving each decade with the development of more accurate monitoring tests and treatments. Individuals with systemic lupus can improve their prognosis by learning about the many aspects of the illness as well as closely monitoring their own health with their doctors. Works Cited Rogan WJ: Occupational and environmental health. In Arnold C (ed.): Advances in Disease Prevention Vol. 1, pp. 272-298, 1981