lupus

Dear Kezzo,

Thank you for your message. Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are quite different conditions but both have one underlying similarity, that they are both auto- immune conditions.

In general terms, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joints and this is what causes the inflammation, pain and swelling. Usually blood tests are used for diagnosis however this can be a complex process as there is no single test for it.

Lupus is different and more complex in terms of its symptoms and how it works. It is too caused by an over- active immune system however it attacks various body tissues which can include the skin, and joints and may involve internal organs. Diagnosis can be difficult as it has symptoms like many other illnesses. Usually a combination of what you have told your GP, what he/she has found when examining you and the results of your blood tests are used.

There is information on lupus on the Arthritis Research Campaign website at the following that may help:
http://www.arc.org.uk/arthinfo/patpubs/6023/6023.asp

We also have a good booklet on ‘Living with rheumatoid arthritis’ that may be useful also:
http://www.arthritiscare.org.uk/PublicationsandResources/Listedbytype/Booklets

If you would like to speak to someone, please feel free to call our confidential helpline number on 0808 800 4050.

Best wishes
Jaslin