SLE (systemic Lupus Erythematosus) or Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various organs in the body.

 

Lupus is suspected if one or more of these symptoms are present 

• Rashes over face, worsening with sun exposure

• Excessive hair fall

• Mouth ulcers 

• Pain, swelling or stiffness of joints 

• Fingers turning blue in winters or with cold exposure 

• Finding of protein in urine or raised creatinine 

• Fall in blood cells (decreased hemoglobin, TLC or platelets)

 

Why treat Lupus early?

• Lupus can affect multiple organs 

• If left untreated, lupus can cause organ damage and in rare cases, death

• With proper treatment disease can be controlled and organ damage prevented 

 

Which doctor to consult for Lupus treatment?

A Rheumatologist is the best specialist for management of lupus. As lupus affects various organ systems and requires long term treatment with immunosuppression, a rheumatologist id the most qualified person to monitor and treat the effects of this disease in various organ systems. 

 

How is Lupus treated?

Depending on disease severity, treatment of lupus involves use of steroids, hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide injections and rituximab injections. Apart from this, Lupus patients should avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen whenever stepping out of the house. Your rheumatologist will determine the treatment plan unique to your disease manifestations and also discuss the long-term monitoring and management with you.