Doctor says MJ had lupus

  The recent unofficial disclosure that Michael Jackson may have been diagnosed with Lupus is bringing new attention to the disease.  According to the Lupus Foundation of America, about 1.5 million Americans have some form of lupus. Women are affected 10 times more often than men. The condition can occur at any age, but is most commonly diagnosed between 15 and 45.

There are several kinds of treatments for SLE. Patients are usually advised to limit exposure to sunlight, maintain a stretching and exercise program, eat a balanced diet and avoid alcohol. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may help reduce inflammation and pain. More severe symptoms can be treated with corticosteroids. In patients with major organ involvement, several other drugs or combinations of medications may also be used.

Research suggests traditional therapies for SLE are effective in reducing symptoms or producing remission in 70 to 90 percent of patients. However, the symptoms can still return, despite ongoing therapy. And sometimes the drugs produce significant toxic side effects (like an increased risk for infections).