Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can affect any system and organ in the body. For the 1.4 million people in the United States who have lupus, an overactive immune system senses that different parts of the body do not belong, and it attacks these parts. The immune system may strike the cells that line the joints or tendons, for example, causing pain and swelling. An incredibly complex disease, lupus must be properly treated for the optimal health and well-being of the person who has it.

The Lupus Encyclopedia is an authoritative compendium that provides detailed explanations of every body system potentially affected by the disease, along with practical advice about coping. People with lupus, their loved ones, caregivers, and medical professionals―all will find here an invaluable resource. Illustrated with photographs, diagrams, and tables, The Lupus Encyclopedia explains symptoms, diagnostic methods, medications and their potential side effects, and when to seek medical attention. Dr. Donald Thomas provides information for women who wish to become pregnant and advises readers about working with a disability, complementary and alternative medicine, infections, cancer, and a host of other topics.

A wealth of detail on the many ways lupus affects the human body, the various related treatment options, a range of patient resources for support, and more… a caring, comprehensive guide to understanding and coping with lupus.

(Library Journal)
The Lupus Encyclopedia is [a] carefully-researched, easily-understood and comprehensive book. It is, as it claims, an ENCYCLOPEDIA… If you [could have] only one book in your library about lupus, The Lupus Encyclopedia might well be it.

(The Lupus Guru)
There is great depth and much to learn from reading and referring to this important book… This book should stand the test of time as one of the great books about this complex auto-immune disease.

(Lupus, the Adventure Between the Lines)
I highly recommend The Lupus Encyclopedia. It’s an amazing source of information, and I feel empowered by the fact that I have a reliable resource to turn to whenever I need it. No matter what your symptoms are or the level of severity, you owe it to yourself to get this book.

(Lupine Life)
The Lupus Encyclopedia is a book that that every lupus patient should have in their home library. It’s the most comprehensive lupus book out there, and is a valuable resource for anyone searching for a detailed and in-depth explanation of this complicated and mysterious disease.

(Sara Gorman Despite Lupus)

Donald E. Thomas, Jr., M.D., FACP, FACR, is an assistant professor of medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and teaches rheumatology at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He is a practicing physician and currently serves as a member of the Medical-Scientific Advisory Council of the Lupus Foundation, DC/MD/VA chapter.