Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a disorder that can affect men or women, but it most commonly found in women. For this reason, it is called a womans disease. There have been some studies done revealing that there is about 1 male affected for every 3 females before puberty, and after menopause there is 8 women to every man affected.
If men develop systemic lupus erythematosus, it is typically drug-induced through prescribed medications. The drug that causes this disease is called procainamide, which is used to treat heart conditions and in hydralazine which is used for controlling high blood pressure.
The symptoms appear to be the same in both men and women, at least during the beginning phase. The final studies have concluded that men will have more symptoms regarding renal failure, neurological as well as vascular diseases than the women. There is more research to be done regarding the most severe symptoms.
Over the years there has been numerous studies done that involve the role of estrogen, the female hormone, and androgens, the male hormones. There is a considerable difference in the way that the men and women metabolize the androgens. They think that women with lupus are able to metabolize the androgens much faster than healthy women.
These studies also have shown lower testosterone levels as possibly the cause for men acquiring this disease. Because this is referred to as a womans disease, there can be misconceptions that men with this are less masculine. In fact, this is not true, men that are affected with systemic lupus erythematosus are just as fertile, potent and sexually active as a healthy man. They are no different hormonally because they have lupus.
The problems that the men do need to deal with are the inability to work or progress in their job. They may have a difficult time supporting their family, and this will cause a great deal of emotional and mental stress. There are some great support groups for systemic lupus erythematosis benefiting both men and women, helping them get the support, education and treatment that is greatly needed.
