Understanding the Complexity of Lupus Disease on the World Lupus Day

Each year on May 10, people across the globe observes the World Lupus Day to support those dealing with this autoimmune disease that is impacting their lives. Since 2004, the day May 10 is used to raise more awareness about the mysterious lupus disease. One in 1,000 Indians suffer from lupus. This autoimmune disorder has the potential to impact every bodily system. Women in the reproductive age group are adversely affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is a multisystem autoimmune disease. In India, the prevalence of SLE is estimated to be 3.2 per 100,000 people.

Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a complex illness where the body's defence system attacks its own parts, affecting skin, hair, joints, muscles, bones, etc.

Dr. Gowri Sankar Bapanapalli, MBBS MD (Gen), MRCP, Diploma in Diabetes of Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality hospital gives a detailed insight about the on understanding, diagnosing, and management of lupus.

"Systemic autoimmune disease, lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, can affect multiple organs, such as the skin, joints, muscles, and nervous system," says Dr. Gowri Sankar. "It mostly affects young girls, ten times more than men. The common symptoms range from kidney failure, muscle pain, joint swelling to fever and rash. Sometimes there are symptoms of meningitis like inflammation of the layers over and above the brain. In young pregnant childbearing age women, it can cause infertility or recurrent abortion. " Since there isn't a single, reliable test for lupus, diagnosing it can be difficult. "We rely on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, including anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) to guide diagnosis," explains Dr. Gowri Sankar. A negative ANA test does not, however, automatically rule out lupus, so clinical judgment is still crucial."

Dr. Gowri Sankar highlights the value of individualized care when it comes to treatment. He further adds "When assessing lupus patients, if there's kidney involvement, we typically conduct urine and kidney function tests. Similarly, for nervous system involvement, we consider brain CT scans based on presenting symptoms. As for treatment, if it's a sporadic, mild case, we often observe without intervention, as lupus can have periods of remission and relapse. During relapses, we focus on symptomatic treatment. Sometimes, we detect lupus incidentally through blood tests in asymptomatic patients. In cases of inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed for management". He states that "treatment approaches vary based on the organ involvement." "In mild cases, hydroxychloroquine that may be sufficient to control inflammation. Along with that, in some cases, which are a bit severe and which are having a long-term disease activity, we do give some medications like corticosteroids and other immune suppressants is used; in more severe cases of auto-immune disease. Commonly used steroids, corticosteroids,

they are called prednisolone or methylprednisolone or

hydrocortisone. All these medications can be used to control and curtail the inflammation.

Along with that, there are other medications like mycophenolate and there are other medications like, disease modifying medications, Dr. Gowri Sankar emphasizes the intricacy of autoimmune diseases in terms of prevention. "Prevention strategies are limited because the specific triggers for lupus are unknown." But there are ways to reduce the risks, like eating a balanced diet, limiting exposure to harsh environments, and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Gowri Sankar provides a message of encouragement and hope for people with lupus.

"Having lupus is not a curse," he says. Many patients can lead happy, fulfilling lives if they receive prompt diagnosis, suitable treatment, and a positive outlook. Indian rheumatology Association, European rheumatology, American rheumatology and other support groups and resources offer priceless information and assistance."

In summary, Dr. Gowri Sankar's observations clarify the nuances of lupus and emphasize the significance of prompt diagnosis and all-encompassing treatment. There is hope for better results and a higher quality of life for those who are impacted by this illness as awareness and research increase.