Lupus can be treated if diagnosed early, say experts

LAHORE:“Lupus, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, leading to widespread inflammation and potential damage. It can affect various systems, including skin, joints, kidneys and brain. Although Lupus can affect anyone, it is more common in women aged 15 to 45”.

These views were expressed during a seminar titled “Awareness Seminar on Lupus”, organised jointly by Mir Khalil-ur-Rahman Memorial Society and Arthritis Care Foundation. The chief guest was Khawaja Salman Rafiq, Minister for Specialised Healthcare & Medical Education.

The event was hosted by Wasif Nagi, Chairman Mir Khalil-ur-Rahman Memorial Society, Jang Group. Khawaja Salman Rafiq said very few people know Lupus affects lives of millions. “Lupus is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system, which normally protects us from illnesses, mistakenly attacks its own cells, joints, skin and internal organs”.

The minister said until we educate ourselves about this disease, we cannot protect ourselves or help others. Raise your voice for Lupus patients, creating an environment of empathy, acceptance and support, he asked.

Lupus, he said, is indeed a challenge, but with courage, knowledge and support, it can be managed. Lupus patients are not weak; in fact, they are the “silent heroes” who fight to overcome their illness every day, he remarked.

Dr Ahmed Saeed, Head of Rheumatology, Central Park Teaching Hospital & Co-Chairperson, Arthritis Care Foundation, said Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects various organs, such as skin, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain. Its primary form is SLE. He said common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain and skin rashes, particularly a butterfly-shaped rash on the face. “If diagnosed early, Lupus can be treated effectively”, he noted.

Prof Dr Nighat Mir Ahmed, Chairperson, Rheumatology Department, National Hospital & Chairperson, Arthritis Care Foundation) explained fever and cough lasting seven to eight weeks may indicate Lupus. Around 30pc of Lupus patients develop skin allergies, with a butterfly-shaped rash appearing on the face.

Other common symptoms, she said, include headaches, memory weakness and anemia. Early diagnosis is crucial, and patients should consult rheumatologists. Due to lack of awareness, many Lupus patients are mistakenly treated for TB - this needs to change, she emphasised.

Prof Dr Sumaira Farman Raja, Head of Rheumatology, National Hospital & Co-Chairperson, Arthritis Care Foundation, said, “Lupus can also affect children. In those under two, it is hereditary, with symptoms similar to adults - fever and mood changes. If a child shows unusual symptoms, medical consultation is essential”.

Anemia in children, she said, could also indicate SLE. Hospitals should provide Lupus patients with medicines, OPD facilities and insurance support. Dr Saba Saif, Consultant Rheumatologist, CMH Lahore, discussed joint complications of the disease. Lupus-generated autoantibodies attack joint tissues, causing stiffness. SLE can lead to arthritis, resulting in swollen, painful and deformed hand joints, she said.

“Sunblock is essential as Lupus can darken the skin. Medications to control joint damage are widely available and effective”, she informed. Dr Saira Aleem Khan, Head of Rheumatology, Shalimar Hospital & General Secretary, Arthritis Care Foundation, said, “Women with Lupus can have normal pregnancies, but delayed diagnosis complicates matters. Antibodies must be treated to avoid fetal harm”.

Dr Yasir Imran, Dr Rifaqat Hameed and Dr Faiq also spoke.Wasif Nagi said, “Lupus is a dangerous disease. Raising awareness among young women is critical. Over half of our population hasn’t even heard of it. It’s a silent killer, but treatable”.