From Library Journal
Blau ( Lupus: The Body Against Itself , LJ 4/1/77; Doubleday, 1984. 2d ed.) states that one million Americans suffer from lupus, eight out of nine being women. That's a compelling reason for patients, their families, and their friends to learn more about this connective tissue disease, which affects joints and muscles, skin, blood vessels, lung membranes, the heart, and the kidneys. The cause is unknown, but Blau cites theories regarding genetics, a virus, and environmental causes. He describes 11 diagnostic criteria but recommends that final diagnosis be made by a rheumatologist. Blau explains the main drugs prescribed for lupus, emphasizing corticosteroids, and also discusses accompanying problems like anemia and osteoporosis. While he offers some useful information, the omission of a major resource for obtaining a physician, confusing statistics, and potentially misleading comments on the drug Tamoxifen are noted flaws. A better choice would be to contact The Lupus Foundation of America for its current approved reading list.
- Catherine Greene, Bethesda Memorial Hosp. Lib., Boynton Beach, Fla.Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Product Description
Completely revised and updated, the definitive guide to maintaining a healthy lifestyle with lupus.
An estimated 1.4 million Americans, most of them women, suffer from lupus, a chronic auto-immune disease in which the immune system attacks the body. With symptoms ranging from skin rashes to kidney dysfunction, lupus is a complicated and frustrating disease, the cause of which is still unknown.
In the newly revised Living with Lupus, Dr. Sheldon Blau helps patients, their caregivers, and their families and friends navigate this unpredictable disease. With sound, up-to-date advice on how to interpret symptoms, find a physician, choose the right treatments and medications, avoid the environmental factors that may trigger a flare-up, and reduce the risk of complications, Living with Lupus is the essential resource for maintaining a healthy and comfortable lifestyle in spite of lupus. Full of practical suggestions, cutting-edge medical information, and moving personal stories, Living with Lupus offers hope and reassurance.
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