no single factor is known to cause lupus. research suggests that a combination of genetic hormonal and immune system factors may be behind it. a predisposition to developing the disease appears to be inherited. environmental factors ranging from viral and bacterial infections to severe emotional stress or overexposure to sunlight may play a role in provoking or triggering the disease. certain drugs such as the blood pressure drug hydralazine and the heart rhythm drug procainamide may cause lupus-like symptoms. high estrogen levels resulting from pregnancy estrogen replacement therapy and oral contraceptives may aggravate lupus.
what causes lupus?