In brief: Severe lupus responds to stem cell therapy

In brief

Severe lupus responds to stem cell therapy

Lupus — more accurately called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects some 1.5 million people, 90% of them women. It usually starts during the childbearing years. Lupus causes the immune system to turn on the body and attack various organs and tissues, especially the skin and joints. It can also cause inflammation in the kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, and brain. Lupus ranges in severity from mild disease characterized by skin rashes, achy joints, and fatigue to serious conditions resulting from damage to the kidneys, lung, heart, and brain. Symptoms tend to come and go as periods of illness (flares) alternate with remissions.

The goal of treatment, which may involve powerful anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and chemotherapy, is to prevent flares and treat symptoms when they occur. Most people with lupus can lead active lives. But for those who don't respond to the usual therapies, lupus can be debilitating, even life-threatening. That's why word of success with an aggressive treatment for difficult-to-control lupus is so exciting.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.