WHAT have wolves got to do with a certain disease? There is a condition called systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or commonly known as lupus, the Latin word for wolf.

In 1851 a doctor discovered red rashes on a patient's face that resembled wolf bites.

It was in the news when National Service trainee Noraini Abu Bakar, 18, developed rashes (one of the symptoms of the disease) but was only allowed to leave camp when it was discovered that she had SLE. And if you remember the second season of the reality show America's Next Top Model, Mercedes Scelba-Shorte who made the top two had some dramatic moments struggling with lupus as stress is one of the triggers of an outbreak.

StarTwo speaks to Malaysian SLE Association (PSLEM) president Dr Heselynn Hussein to find out more about the disease. She says that PSLEM holds monthly public forums at their secretariat and everyone is welcome. She hopes that SLE sufferers remain positive and realise that they are not alone. She adds that if it is detected early the severity of it can be reduced.

Q. What are the symptoms of the disease?

A. The symptoms are manifold, that's why it's called a disease of a thousand faces. It can present in many different ways such as prolonged fever, joint pain, facial rash, excessive hair loss, mouth ulcers, low blood cells, kidney disease and neurological symptoms such as strokes, fits and psychosis.

Are the medications presently available effective in treating the disease. Are there some sufferers for whom these medications are not so effective and if yes, why?

With advances in modern medicine, there are now many effective medications to treat SLE. However, in certain instances, there are still cases whereby the disease is difficult to control, so the patient needs to be on strong immuno-suppressants. There is no cure as yet for lupus. The drugs are only to control the disease, not to cure.

Are there any side effects to any of the medications? If yes, how can they be minimised?

Generally, side effects can be minimised by regular follow-up with the doctor so that the doctor can prescribe drugs such as steroids to the lowest minimum effective dose.

Can SLE sufferers get other ailments as a result of treatment?

Since a lot of the drugs used to treat SLE, like steroids and cyclophosphamide, suppress the immune system, patients on such drugs are more prone to develop infections.

What are some of the restrictions on those who have the disease?

They should always protect themselves from the sun. Use sun block before going out and use protective gear like umbrella, hat and long- sleeved clothing.

Is someone genetically predisposed to having SLE? Will their children have a possibility of suffering the disease too?

The actual cause of SLE is not known but it is thought to be multi-factorial whereby a genetically predisposed individual is exposed to a lot of other factors like environment, hormones, infections, and so on till auto-immunity develops. There is a 5% chance of children of affected individuals getting the disease.

Is it safe for anyone with SLE to have children?

Before an SLE patient wants to get pregnant, the disease must be under control for at least six months.

Statistically is anyone more prone to get SLE?

SLE is more common among Afro-Caribbeans (1 in 250 possibility), and Orientals (1 in 1,000) followed by Caucasians (1 in 4,000).