Question:
Men can definitely get lupus though the incidence is only about 1/10th that of women. I’d suppose that a man could then also pass on genes for it to his offspring. However, you have to keep in mind that generally speaking there is very little chance of offspring inheriting lupus from ANY parent who has it. There is statistically a much higher risk for female children than male ones (10% for a daughter and 2% for a son according to Dr. Wallace in THE LUPUS BOOK), though it wouldn’t be impossible for a male child to inherit it. Also, there is no single gene that causes lupus. It can be caused by a combination of genes and many other possible factors. Sandra
Response:
Hi I just found out that my uncle had Lupus. Also that my brother is being monitored for it. Elevated ANA and butterfly rash. Does anyone know if it can just get passed down on the male side of families? (and not in the females)? Just wondering because my ANA has been elevated at times and they say "it’s meaningless", not to worry. Thanks J
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