Rheumatological

Lupus (SLE)

A condition where the immune system can affect joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs, with symptoms that vary widely between people and often flare and settle over time.

This overview is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're experiencing symptoms, your first step should always be your doctor or a specialist — not this page.

Who typically manages this

Rheumatological autoimmune conditions are usually managed by a rheumatologist, often alongside a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. Common day-to-day themes across this group include pacing activity around fatigue, staying physically active in ways that suit your flare pattern, and planning ahead around vaccination or pregnancy where relevant.

Navigating care in South Africa

In South Africa, autoimmune conditions on the Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) Chronic Disease List may qualify for defined funding through your medical aid. AutoImmune Companion's Navigator maps the specialist referral pathway for each body system and explains PMB and funding basics in plain language — general information only, not a substitute for advice from your medical aid or specialist.

Tracking Lupus (SLE) with AutoImmune Companion SA

The SLEDAI-P tool tracks patient-reportable disease activity between appointments. Everything you log — flares, medication, appointments — stays on your own device and is never sent to a server unless you choose to share a printed summary with your specialist.

Open AutoImmune Companion

AutoImmune Companion SA does not diagnose Lupus (SLE) or any other condition, does not recommend treatment, and does not replace your specialist. It is a free tool for tracking and preparing for appointments only.