Lee Graff
Cover FX co-creator

Lupus is a mysterious disease to diagnose because there are fluctuations in the signs and symptoms and Lupus is often confused with other disorders and diseases.   According to the Lupus Foundation, lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease which causes inflammation of various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood vessels, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain.  The immune system normally protects the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders.  With lupus, the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between foreign substances and its own cells and tissues.  The immune system then makes antibodies which are directed against itself.  In other words, the immune system turns against parts of the body it is designed to protect.  This leads to inflammation and damage to various body tissues.  It is estimated that 90 % of people suffering with lupus will experience joint/muscle pain at some time during the course of their illness.

Lupus is not contagious and can strike men, women and children of all ages.  The majority of diagnosed patients (90 %) are women most commonly between the ages of 15- 44 and is two to three times more prevalent among people of colour.  It is most prevalent in African Americans, Hispanics, Native North Americans and Asians.  It is a major disease that primarily affects young women in their most productive years.  The cause of the disease is unknown and there is no cure at the present time. However, lupus can be effectively treated with drugs and most people with the disease can lead active, healthy lives.  Experts say the illness probably results from a complex mix of hormonal, genetic and environmental factors.  Lupus is characterized by periods of illness, called flares and periods of wellness or remission.  Understanding how to prevent flares and how to treat them when they do occur, helps people with lupus maintain better health.

The origin of the name “Lupus” comes from the Latin meaning -bite in the face by a wolf.  Others say that the same rash resembles the pattern of colour on a wolf’s face.  Discoid Lupus is a chronic skin disorder in which a red, raised rash appears on the face, scalp or elsewhere.  The raised areas may become thick, scaly and may cause scarring.  The rash may last for days or years and may recur.  The worst comes when the patients loses hope and gives in to frustration and depression.

English Soul and RNB singer & songwriter, Seal has a condition called Discoid Lupus.