Lupus is a classical autoimmune disease with a spectrum of diseases, the less severe end of the spectrum being cutaneous lupus erythematosus, in which lesions are limited to the skin and even if there is damage to other organs, it is relatively mild, while the more severe end of the spectrum is systemic lupus erythematosus, in which lesions involve multiple systems and organs. It is currently believed that the development of lupus erythematosus is the result of a multifactorial and multi-mechanism combination. The development of lupus erythematosus is familially aggregated, but most cases are disseminated, suggesting that environmental factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of lupus erythematosus. Viral or bacterial infections, allergies, certain medications, sun exposure, environmental pollution, depression, and exertion have been found to be associated with the onset of lupus erythematosus or its exacerbation. In addition, lupus erythematosus is mostly seen in women of childbearing age, and pregnancy, childbirth, and oral contraceptives can trigger or aggravate the disease. Lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease and there is no cure yet. Patients need regular follow-up, immediate follow-up when there is a change in the condition, timely adjustment of the treatment plan, and should insist on long-term follow-up.