Some scientists believe that the immune system in lupus is more easily stimulated by external factors like viruses or ultraviolet light. People with systemic lupus erythematosus may have an association with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (a thrombotic disorder), wherein autoantibodies to phospholipids are present in their serum. Usually, patients have skin rashes and arthritis, as well as fatigue and fever.
See your doctor if you develop an unexplained rash, ongoing fever, persistent aching or fatigue. Despite the nearly identical genetic makeup of identical twins, the probability of the unaffected twin developing the disease if the other twin has it is around 30%-50% or less. The word “systemic” means the disease can affect many parts of the body. Lupus patients who get infections frequently show worse clinical signs and require longer treatment than non-lupus patients.