Definition

1. Noun:
   • A constellation in the southern hemisphere near Centaurus: In astronomy, "lupus" refers to a specific constellation.
   • Any of several forms of ulcerative skin disease: In medicine, "lupus" is a term for a group of chronic autoimmune diseases that can affect the skin and other organs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Astronomy):

  • Lupus is visible in the southern sky during certain months.
  • The star chart included the constellation Lupus.

• Noun (Medicine):

  • She was diagnosed with lupus last year.
  • The rash is a common symptom of cutaneous lupus.

Advanced Usage

• "Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)": The most common and serious form of the disease, affecting multiple body systems.

  • Managing systemic lupus erythematosus requires a comprehensive treatment plan.

• "Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)": A form primarily affecting the skin.

  • Discoid lupus lesions often appear on the face and scalp.

Variants and Related Words

• Lupus vulgaris (n): An old term for a form of cutaneous tuberculosis, historically but incorrectly associated with the term "lupus."
  • Lupus vulgaris is now known to be caused by the tuberculosis bacterium.

Synonyms

• Autoimmune disease (for the medical condition): A broader category of diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.
• Constellation (for the astronomical object): A group of stars forming a recognizable pattern.

Related Phrases

• "Lupus flare": A period when lupus symptoms become more active or severe.

  • Stress can sometimes trigger a lupus flare.

• "Lupus nephritis": Kidney inflammation caused by systemic lupus.

  • Regular tests are needed to monitor for lupus nephritis.

Noun

1. a constellation in the southern hemisphere near Centaurus
2. any of several forms of ulcerative skin disease