BETTER UNDERSTANDING LUPUS AND ITS ISSUES

Can lupus be associated with other autoimmune diseases?

YES, several autoimmune diseases can be associated with lupus. A common genetic terrain is probably at the origin of these associations. The Sjögren syndrome (an autoimmune disease expressed mainly by dry mouth and/or eyes) can be associated with lupus, in about 20% of cases.

The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, which is characterised by the formation of blood clots (thrombosis) in the arteries or veins, and particular antibodies, is often associated with lupus as well.

Other systemic autoimmune diseases, such as inflammatory myopathies or scleroderma, can be associated with lupus: this is called mixed  connective tissue disorder.

Finally, lupus can be associated with "localised" autoimmune diseases, including thyroiditis or myasthenia gravis.

Takeaways

The association of Lupus with other systemic or localised autoimmune diseases is possible. The most frequently associated diseases are the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and Sjögren syndrome.

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