What Is Systemic Lupus?
2. Causes
While the exact cause of systemic lupus erythematosus is unknown, people with SLE also often have family members with the disease. This suggests a genetic component. However, genetic makeup is only one contributing factor. It appears that some sorts of environmental triggers, such as medications, infections, or ultraviolet radiation, are required for symptoms to manifest.
Because most cases of SLE occur in women of childbearing age, and many are diagnosed during puberty or menopause, it is possible that there is also a link between the hormone estrogen and SLE. However, more research is needed to definitively determine whether estrogen is a causative or contributing factor.
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