Lupus can be difficult to recognise because it does not look the same in every person. Symptoms may appear gradually, come and go in flares or resemble several other medical conditions. Understanding the possible patterns can help someone seek appropriate care without assuming that one rash, painful joint or abnormal blood test automatically means lupus. On this page What is lupus? How symptoms can behave Possible lupus symptoms How lupus is diagnosed Treatment and everyday care When symptoms need urgent attention What Is Lupus? Systemic lupus erythematosus, usually shortened to SLE or lupus, is a long-term autoimmune condition. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation that may affect the skin, joints, kidneys, blood cells, heart, lungs or nervous system. Lupus is not c...