Symptoms of Autoimmune Disorders
Since the skin is the body’s largest organ, many autoimmune disorders can have different skin manifestations.
For example, systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems of the body, including internal organs and the skin. Frequently accompanying this disorder is a rash with widespread redness that covers the nose and cheeks. Being able to differentiate between the symptoms that are appearing on a patient’s skin and connecting that with an autoimmune disorder is best performed by a qualified dermatologist.
There are much different Autoimmune Disorder Treatment that come with skin manifestations. Some of the most commonly experienced skin symptoms include a violet rash that commonly develops on the face and eyelids, nail fold changes, sun sensitivity, and swelling, among other signs.
Who Can Develop Autoimmune Disorders that Affect the Skin?
There are many risk factors that can increase the likelihood for someone to develop an autoimmune disorder. Family history, and genetics, for example, can be indications for certain autoimmune disorders.
For example, in the case of systemic lupus erythematosus, women are actually 6 times more likely to acquire the disease than men. However, everyone from children, teens, men, women, and older individuals can develop an autoimmune disorder.
Getting a Diagnosis for Autoimmune Disorders
Using clinical knowledge, discussions with each patient, and diagnostic testing, Dr. Ip can work with your medical team to come to a diagnosis and treatment plan that best controls the autoimmune disorder and its effects on the skin. The diagnosis for autoimmune disorders requires a combination of clinical acumen as well as diagnostic labs.
For most patients, autoimmune disorders are diagnosed and treated by a team of diversely specialized doctors, such as a dermatologist, rheumatologist, and so on, in order to provide the highest level of comprehensive care.
Treatment Options for Autoimmune Disorders Affecting the Skin
Because there are so many autoimmune disorders that can affect the skin, the treatment options can vary widely. During your consultation with Dr. Ip, you will learn about, and discuss, what is available for you and the types of results you can expect. In many cases, steroids and immunotherapy are needed to properly control the symptoms of an autoimmune disorder on the skin.