Lupus FAQs
Here's a list of the most frequently asked questions that I've gotten from readers...Hope that it answers some of your questions!
* Q: What's the deal with lupus and the wolf and butterfly? Why are these used as symbols/references?
* A: "Lupus" is Latin for "wolf". In the 18th century, when lupus was just starting to be recognized as a disease, it was thought that it was caused by the bite of a wolf. This may have been because of the distinctive rash characteristic of lupus. (Once full-blown, the round, disk-shaped rashes heal from the inside out, leaving a bite-like imprint.)
The "butterfly" is also a reference to the rash. It frequently occurs on the face on the tops of the cheeks, across the bridge of the nose and above the eyes. This "butterfly" shape is very distinctive, and is a good indication of lupus, but is not necessary for diagnosis.
* Q: We just found out my sister has lupus. My sister's doctor said she needs to see a specialist. What kind of doctor takes care of that?
* A: Usually a rheumatologist manages a lupus patient's lupus problems. They specialize in rheumatoid illnesses like lupus, RA, scleroderma and other diseases like them. A lupus patient usually keeps her family doctor or GP as a primary doc to manage non-lupus related problems. Other specialists may need to step in to manage specific organs or systems affected by lupus. For example, a dermatologist to take care of the rash, or a nephrologist if there is kidney involvement. No matter how many docs are helping to take care of a patient, they should all be in touch with one another periodically, to coordinate care and help the "whole patient."
* Q: My friend just found out she has lupus. I spend a lot of time with her. Is it like AIDS? Is it contagious? Could I catch it from her?
* A: Lupus is an autoimmune disease. This means that it starts in the body and stays in the body. Sometimes people confuse autoimmune diseases with acquired immune diseases. Although the two are similar in that they both affect the immune system of the body, autoimmune diseases develop as a result of a disorder inherent in the body. Acquired immune diseases like AIDS are communicable, but only under certain circumstances (ie: sexual intercourse or breastfeeding). You could no more "catch" lupus from someone than you could "catch" diabetes or high blood pressure.
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