Common Misdiagnoses of Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, is one of many systemic autoimmune diseases. A healthy immune system will protect the body by attacking pathogens and other foreign invaders. Those who suffer from lupus have an overactive immune system that assails healthy cells, tissues and organs of the body, causing inflammation and secondary disease. Lupus can affect organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys and brain.

What Causes Lupus?

Scientists are working to find the exact cause of SLE. It is believed that the 1.5 million people in the United States who suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus may have been born with a genetic predisposition for it and that environmental stressors such as viruses, infection, harmful chemicals, prescription medication and UV light may "trigger" the onset of the disease.

The disease affects women more than men. The average age for developing lupus is between 15 and 50. Asians, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders and African-Americans are more likely to contract the inflammatory disorder.

Lupus Diagnosis

Systemic lupus can cause moderate symptoms, disability and even death. Early diagnosis is important to prevent organ damage. Common complaints include joint inflammation, pain, stiffness, "butterfly-shaped" rashes on the nose and cheeks, malaise, fever, fluctuations in weight, memory loss, skin sores, chest pain and depression.

The criteria for a lupus diagnosis is established by the American College of Rheumatology. In general, patients must have four out of 11 specific symptoms or "criteria" to be diagnosed with SLE. These symptoms can manifest themselves over several months or years or can appear in the body concurrently. 

A doctor will recommend blood tests to determine the amount of red and white blood cells and platelets. A blood test called an antinuclear antibody test, or ANA, is used to measure the amount of antibodies in the blood. An elevated concentration of antibodies can be indicative of an autoimmune disease. Other blood tests can determine the health of the kidneys and liver.

The amount of protein found in urine can also assess kidney function. The lungs will be checked by X-ray for effusions and pericarditis. Pericarditis is an inflammation of the protective sac that surrounds the heart. An effusion is a collection of fluid that is trapped between the chest wall and the lung.

Treatment Options

Although lupus is incurable, there are drugs available to combat inflammation and pain and to control flare-ups. Steroids and anti-malarial drugs can be prescribed for lupus flare-ups. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can be taken for pain and inflammation. A new generic drug called belimumab was approved by the Federal Drug Administration in March 2011 to specifically treat lupus. Belimumab was celebrated as the first new drug in 50 years developed for this purpose.

Diagnostic Error

Diagnostic error is possible because signs and symptoms of lupus are non-specific to the disease. Malaise, joint pain and short-term memory loss can be indicative of chronic fatigue syndrome as well as lupus or Lyme disease.

A missed or delayed diagnosis by a physician can have serious consequences. Lupus can be life threatening and can cause seizures, anemia, paralysis, organ failure and brain inflammation.

Legal Consultation

If you feel that you have a legal case due to a diagnostic error or missed diagnosis concerning lupus or any other systemic autoimmune disease, protect your legal rights by consulting a medical malpractice attorney in your area.