Conditions We Treat
Lupus Treatment in Manassas, VA
Lupus treatment in Manassas, VA requires careful diagnosis and steady, long-term monitoring. Our board-certified rheumatologists help patients with systemic lupus erythematosus control symptoms, prevent flares, and protect organs through medication management, lab monitoring, and in-office infusions when needed.
- Board-certified rheumatologists
- Most insurance plans accepted
- Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm
Ongoing monitoring
Infusions available on site
What Is Lupus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. It can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart, lungs, and brain. Lupus often follows a pattern of flares and calmer periods, and it is more common in women of childbearing age.
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Rashes or sensitivity after sun exposure
- Fevers without infection
- Mouth sores and hair thinning
- Chest pain when breathing deeply
- Fingers turning white or blue in the cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon)
Causes and Risk Factors
Lupus likely results from a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers such as sunlight, infections, and certain medications. It is more common in women and in people of African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent.
How We Diagnose Lupus
Lupus can be hard to diagnose because symptoms vary and change over time. Your clinician reviews your symptoms and exam findings along with blood tests such as ANA, anti-dsDNA, complement levels, and blood counts, plus urine tests to check the kidneys. Ultrasound can help evaluate joint inflammation.
Treatment Options
- Hydroxychloroquine, a foundation of lupus care for many patients
- Short courses of steroids for flares, at the lowest effective dose
- Immunosuppressive medications when organs are involved
- Biologic therapies, some given as infusions in our office
- Bone density monitoring for patients taking steroids
- Sun protection, rest, and regular lab and eye monitoring
When to Seek Care
Talk with a rheumatologist if you have joint pain along with rashes, fatigue, fevers, or a positive ANA test. If you already have lupus, contact us about new symptoms such as swelling in the legs, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Call 911 for any medical emergency.
Next steps
Get evaluated in Manassas
Call (703) 361-3255 or request an appointment online. Our Manassas office is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Related pages
How We Help
Services Used to Evaluate and Treat Lupus
These in-office services may be part of your evaluation or treatment plan.
IV medications for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, osteoporosis, and more.
DEXA scans that measure bone mineral density to screen for osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Radiation-free, real-time imaging of joints, tendons, and soft tissue to look for inflammation.
Your Care Team
Rheumatology Clinicians Who Treat Lupus
Our board-certified rheumatologists and nurse practitioners care for patients with lupus at our Manassas office.
Nurse practitioner
Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner
FAQs
Lupus Questions
Answers to common questions from patients in Manassas and across Northern Virginia.
Is lupus contagious?
No. Lupus is an autoimmune disease and cannot be passed from person to person.
Does a positive ANA mean I have lupus?
Not necessarily. Many people have a positive ANA without lupus. A rheumatologist interprets the result along with your symptoms and other tests.
Can people with lupus live active lives?
Many people with lupus work, exercise, and stay active with good treatment and regular follow-up.
How often will I need lab tests?
Most patients have lab work every few months to monitor disease activity and medication safety. Your clinician will set a schedule for you.
Related Conditions
Related Conditions We Treat
Many rheumatic conditions share symptoms or occur together. Learn about related conditions.
Connective Tissue Disorders
Autoimmune conditions of joints, skin, and organs
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Color changes in fingers and toes with cold
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inflammatory joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Osteoporosis & Osteopenia
Low bone density and fracture risk
Request an Appointment
Schedule a Visit for Lupus
Request an appointment online or call (703) 361-3255 to be evaluated at our Manassas office.
