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The disease has multiple symptoms with variable severity, which determines individual treatment. There is no cure for SLE.
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Mild disease (rash, headaches, fever, arthritis, pleurisy, pericarditis) requires little therapy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) are used to treat arthritis and pleurisy. Corticosteroid creams are used to treat skin rashes. Antimalarial drugs (hydroxychloroquine) and low dose corticosteroids are sometimes used for skin and arthritis symptoms.
Sensitivity to light is treated by protective clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Severe or life-threatening manifestations (hemolytic anemia, extensive heart or lung involvement, kidney disease, central nervous system involvement) often requires treatment by both rheumatologists and specialists in the specific area. Corticosteroids or medications to suppress the immune system may be prescribed to control the various symptoms. Some health care professionals use cytotoxic drugs (drugs that block cell growth) to treat people who do not have a good response to corticosteroids or who are dependent on high doses of corticosteroids.
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