Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form of lupus, an autoimmune disease characterized by widespread inflammation that can affect nearly any part of the body. In SLE and other autoimmune diseases, the body inappropriately targets and creates antibodies against its own tissues (called autoantibodies).[1] With SLE, the autoantibodies present tend to target molecules originating from the nucleus of cells. This autoantibody-driven self-attack results in acute (occurring suddenly) and/or chronic (long-lasting) damage to organs and organ systems. Other forms of lupus include cutaneous lupus, drug-induced lupus, and neonatal lupus.
What is systemic lupus erythematosus?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Systemic lupus erythematosus is the most common form of lupus, an autoimmune disease that causes widespread inflammation and the production of autoantibodies that target the body's own tissues, particularly those from the cell nucleus. This condition can lead to both acute and chronic damage to various organs and organ systems.