Do TNF agents such as Humira or enbrel cause SLE or cause someone who already has SLE to worsen? One rheumatologist wants to put me on humira, but another says that drug can cause SLE to worsen. I have been on plaquenil, MTX and NSAIDS for over 10 years and do not like to take predinisone because of problems weaning off it regardless of how slowly it is weaned. Would Cellcept be a better option?

What is the risk of a 26-year old female infected with lupus who is pregant to have the diease genetically passed on to her child?

I am a 26 year old female who has had a tubaligation under the advice of my Gyn, rheumatologist, and nephrologist. I have had 3 grade 4 glomerulonephritis flares, and have under gone 3 sessions of cytoxin, I have taken imuran, and currently am on cell cept, Kidney levels have gone back to normal, and proteinuria is down to a minimum, will there ever be a chance that I may have children, or can I opt for some one to carry my child, what is the probability that my eggs are damaged, and the chances that my child will be born with an abnormality?

I am writing in for my sister-in-law. She has been diagnosed with SLE and is having a very rough time. As of now, she is being treated with methotrexate (injection) and prednisone. We have heard about a treatment combining MTX with another medication that, in some patients, has reduced or eliminating the need for the steroids. Do you have any facts on this; if so, please share them with me. Also, do you know of medications that will help her have more energy throughout her treatments?

ANA level was 1:640? mine just came back that high.

Can you tell me what an elevated total compliment blood test means. I understand this may be related to a collagen or autoimmue disease. I have been advised to see a doctor of rheumatology. My blood test was over 200 and normal is suppose to be between 0-50. Thank you very much.