Butterfly in shadowland

​The butterfly rash is one of the most characteristic symptoms of Lupus. It´s also called "malar rash" where malar is the Latin word for cheekbone. About half experience this rash that spreads over the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. For some, it´s also the symptom that ultimately points to Lupus as the correct diagnosis. The rash is a sign of active disease or increased disease activity and is not permanent. It often appears in connection with sunlight and those with photosensitivity (SSA antibodies) are more exposed. It´s the most sun-exposed points on the face that are affected, which can give the butterfly-like shape. The butterfly is therefore a frequently used motif in connection with lupus. The same rash has given rise to the name of the disease, but then with reference to another animal. Lupus which is Latin for "wolf" and erythematosus which is Greek for "red". The term «red wolf» referred to the rash that could resemble a wolf bite. The wolf is perhaps a less pleasant, but more appropriate association with the aggressive side of the disease.

This butterfly has unfortunately flown a little too carelessly in the sun, and needs to recharge in the shade. Yesterday's check-up with the GP led to doubling the prednisolone dosage  and the appoting at the rheumatalogist was moved forward from August to tomorrow. There is something schizofrenic about explaining to GP the symptoms you are worried about, while at the same time you´re trying to explain them away in the same sentence. But the GP listens carefully, listens to me, listens to my heart, lungs, and measures blood pressure. An ECG is taken which comes back normal. What I´m describing with the rashes and mouth ulcers indicate increased disease activity. It feels like a step back, but I'm in safe hands. It´s reassuring and comforting to know that I´m taken so good care of. Fingers crossed that it´s a false alarm.

Sources:
https://bindevevssykdommer.no/sle-2/hud-ved-sle/ 
The Lupus Encyclopedia