Lupus

What is lupus? 

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disorder where the body’s cells are attacked by one’s own immune system. This leads to inflammation and damage to various parts of the body, including the joints, kidneys, skin, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain. Our specialists come together to care for patients with all forms of lupus: 

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): lupus that affects multiple tissues and organs
• Cutaneous (skin) lupus, including Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) and subacute cutaneous lupus
• Lupus kidney disease, also known as lupus nephritis

Lupus Diagnosis and Treatment

Lupus affects every patient differently, and can be hard to diagnose because of its varied and non-specific symptoms. That’s why we offer a multidisciplinary care model and all the latest medication options. At BMC, you can get in quickly to see two or three specialists on the same day and you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind treatment plan for all aspects of your condition. Our patient navigators help plan these coordinated visits, and will ensure you receive timely and appropriate follow-up.

BMC clinicians have been at the forefront of lupus diagnosis and treatment. They have helped develop the nationally-accepted classification of systemic lupus erythematosus, making it easier to diagnose. They also pioneered various treatments for lupus, particularly at the stage when the disease begins to affect the kidneys. 

Our team of rheumatologists include Dr. Monica Crespo-Bosque and Dr. Michael York as the leaders of the lupus team. The Lupus Clinic at BMC is a partnership between the departments of Rheumatology, Dermatology, Nephrology, and Obstetrics/Gynecology. Patients can be seen by two or three specialists on the same day and get a treatment plan for all aspects of their condition before they leave. Our patient navigator helps plan these coordinated visits, and ensures that patients get appropriate follow up appointments, as well as monitoring between appointments.

Patients may also be able to join cutting-edge research studies for new treatments. To learn more about diagnosis and treatment options, please contact Boston Medical Center's Lupus Clinic.