Complications of Lupus
From accelerated heart disease to kidney and pregnancy complications, the serious risks of uncontrolled lupus, and why early care matters.
Because lupus can affect nearly every organ system, its complications are wide-ranging and can be serious. Awareness helps patients and families stay vigilant.
The most important complication is early or accelerated heart disease and atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attack, a leading cause of death among people with lupus. Stroke is another major risk.
During pregnancy, lupus raises the risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy), and premature birth. Parts of the gastrointestinal system may be affected, including the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts.
Additional complications include high blood pressure and loss of kidney function, blood clotting (thrombosis), blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis), infection, and diminished blood supply to bone causing bone tissue death (avascular necrosis).
The good news is that with early diagnosis, close monitoring, and modern treatment, many of these complications can be prevented or managed. Regular follow-up with your rheumatologist is essential.
Dr. Maggie Cadet, MD