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Medline NLM definition of Systematic Lupus Erythmatosus: a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory, and often febrile multisystemic disorder of connective tissue, characterized principally by involvement of the skin, joints, kidneys, and serosal membranes. It is of unknown etiology, but is thought to represent a failure of the regulatory mechanisms of the autoimmune system. The disease is marked by a wide range of system dysfunctions, an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and the formation of LE cells in the blood or bone marrow.
Lupus: information from the NHS website
Lupus: information from Patient UK website
Lupus: factsheet from NINDS, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (US site)
PubMed Medline search on Lupus
Support Groups
Lupus UK
Lupus UK is the only registered charity supporting sufferers of the illness Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in the UK. They are a self-help group, run by volunteers of whom the majority have Lupus. We presently have over 7,500 Members and 30 Regional Groups who arrange medical talks, publish local newsletters, set up local occasions and organise fundraising events. LUPUS UK also produces an informative national magazine with lupus articles, letters, reports, and photographs, and operates a strong Grant Programme for research purposes and welfare.
Lupus Foundation of America (US site)
Contains information on causes and treatment, has a research and resource library, and an FAQ page. Also includes an email forum page for internet discussions by people with Lupus.
Brain and Spine Foundation
Information on living with a neurological condition and on diagnosis. There are publications and resources. The useful glossary of neurological conditions (under 'Information and support') includes links to some other organisations as well as to Brain and Spine Foundation information.
Neurological Alliance
Collective voice for 80 organisations, including stroke and brain injury. Organisations are listed at https://www.neural.org.uk/our-members/, a good place to start if looking for information on those conditions. Site also includes information about living with a neurological condition, a glossary, and information about onset and diagnosis as well as a small set of real life stories.
NHS Inform: brain, nerves and spinal cord
NHS inform is Scotland's national health information service, with the aim of providing the people in Scotland with accurate and relevant information to help them make informed decisions about their own health and the health of the people they care for.