The causes of a disease with lupus are still unclear. It is known that lupus is an autoimmune disease, i.e. pathological reactions of the immune system, which are directed against the patient’s own tissue. However, the exact causes of this formation of autoantibodies in lupus are unknown. There is certainly a hereditary component: In families with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the susceptibility to developing the disease (genetic disposition) is increased.
Lupus: causes unclear in SLE.
It is unclear what other triggering factors must be present for lupus disease to develop. Among other things, viruses and UV light are discussed, as are hormones.
In addition, it is suspected that certain mechanisms in the organism that clean up unnecessary or potentially harmful cells only function to a limited extent, so that dead material is not sufficiently broken down and accumulates. This in turn is classified as dangerous by the immune system and triggers defensive reactions: the inflammatory process is thus set in motion and the lupus disease breaks out.
It is also known that certain drugs can trigger systemic lupus (drug-induced SLE), for example drugs for high blood pressure, epilepsy or antibiotics. The disease is usually mild, and symptoms of lupus often resolve after the drug is discontinued.
Skin lupus: causes with a hereditary component.
As causes in cutaneous lupus (CDLE), the hereditary component appears to be present but less pronounced than in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In contrast, intolerance to UV-B radiation has been shown to be an important factor in the causes of CDLE.
It is also possible that hormonal influences and psychological and physical stress play a role in the onset of the disease as causes.
