A CHRONIC AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE AFFECTING MULTIPLE ORGANS
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
A chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing joint pain, skin rashes, and effects on kidneys, blood, lungs and other organs. Managed with specialist long-term care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation and damage in multiple organs. It can affect joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, the brain, heart, lungs and other systems. SLE is much more common in women, particularly of childbearing age, and follows a pattern of flare-ups and remission. Typical features include joint pain and swelling, butterfly-shaped facial rash, photosensitivity, mouth ulcers, hair loss, tiredness, fever, kidney involvement, blood abnormalities and neurological symptoms. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, specific blood tests including antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-dsDNA antibodies, and assessment of organ involvement. Treatment is highly individualised based on disease activity and organs involved, and includes immune-modifying therapy, anti-inflammatory therapy, sun protection and structured monitoring. Early diagnosis and good control significantly improve outcomes. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with rheumatology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Autoimmune attack in genetically susceptible individuals
- Family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal factors — more common in women
- Sunlight exposure as a trigger
- Certain infections and stress as triggers
- Some medications can cause lupus-like illness
- Specific genetic markers identified
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical features, ANA, anti-dsDNA, complement levels and assessment of organ involvement
Mild · Moderate · Severe — based on organs involved and disease activity
Immune-modifying therapy, anti-inflammatory therapy and sun protection
Needs careful planning and specialist co-management
Critical to prevent flares
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with rheumatology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Specialist Long-Term Care with Activity Monitoring
The most effective approach is rheumatology co-managed care with immune-modifying therapy tailored to disease activity and organs involved, strict sun protection, regular monitoring of disease activity and organ function, and patient education on flare prevention.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the patient and arranges blood and urine tests including ANA, anti-dsDNA, complement levels and organ-specific tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with rheumatology, based on disease activity and organs involved.
- 3
Medical Management
Immune-modifying therapy, anti-inflammatory therapy for symptoms, sun protection, vaccinations and management of complications.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with regular monitoring of disease activity, organ function and treatment adjustments.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Immune-Modifying Therapy (Referral for rheumatology)
Specific immune-modifying therapy is the foundation of SLE treatment, with regimens tailored to disease activity and organ involvement.
Anti-Inflammatory Therapy for Symptom Control
Anti-inflammatory medical therapy and short courses of steroid therapy help control joint pain and flares.
Sun Protection and Lifestyle Measures
Strict sun protection with sunscreen, protective clothing and avoiding peak sunlight is essential to prevent skin flares and disease activation.
Vaccinations and Infection Prevention
Vaccinations against influenza, pneumococcus and other organisms reduce the risk of infections in immunosuppressed patients.
Co-Management of Organ Complications (Referral for relevant specialist)
Kidney, brain, heart, lung or blood involvement requires co-management with relevant specialists for targeted care.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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