Final answer:
Systemic lupus erythematosus is caused by type III hypersensitivity, where immune complexes involving self antigens accumulate in the blood and cause inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cause of systemic lupus erythematosus is type III hypersensitivity.
In type III hypersensitivity, immune complexes involving self antigens accumulate in the blood and precipitate along blood vessel linings, leading to inflammation.