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The exact cause of Lupus is still unknown and difficult to pinpoint; though certain conditions are known to trigger it:
- Genetic Conditions
- Environment conditions and
- Drug reaction
Genetic Conditions
Lupus is hereditary and runs in the family and can manifest itself generation after generation because of the genetic link. Though a single ‘lupus gene’ has not been identified in the human DNA yet it appears as though multiple genes influence the chance of Lupus developing in a person.
Environment Conditions
In certain conditions, Lupus can be triggered when due to extreme stress, exposure to sun, hormones and infections.
Ultraviolet radiation is known to trigger the photosensitive malar rash in some and recent research also suggests that Ultraviolet rays are capable of altering the structure of human DNA which leads to creation of autoantibodies.
Drug Reaction
Certain drugs can trigger ‘Drug-induced lupus erythematosus’ in some patients who are treated for long-term illness. This condition is however reversible, the symptoms of lupus will disappear once the patient stops the medications that triggered the disease. Over 400 medications that are currently prescribed by physicians can cause Lupus and the most common drugs that cause this are procainamide, hydralazine and quinidine.
Since Lupus primarily affects women during their childbearing years and some researchers feel that there may be a link between the secretion of estrogen in women and the onset of Lupus. Estrogen is a hormone produced in a woman’s body that enables the woman to get pregnant. |
