Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Systemic lupus erythematosusUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewSystemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic inflammatory disease occurring when the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. Lupus can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.SymptomsSymptoms can periodically get worse (flare) and then improve.TreatmentsTreatment includes a variety of medications. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use