Stanley hospital sees increase in SLE cases

The number of patients with SLE has been increasing over the years. This hospital alone has received more than 100 cases in the last three years, which indicate that the disease was more prevalent than widely considered, but has little or no awareness about it. Stressing on its varied manifestations, Dr M Hema, professor of Rheumatology at the Stanley Hospital said, “It can affect the skin or joints, or kidneys, the heart, lung, liver or blood. It is a great imitator of various diseases.

Therefore, the patient, who identify a symptom, should go for investigations.” Recalling one case, Dr Hema explained a case where a youth who had just completed his engineering education was affected by lupus. 

“He had lived in different parts of the state. Each time he felt sick or found something wrong with his health, he got himself checked at various hospitals. When he visited Stanley Hospital, he was in a pathetic condition. On investigating, we found that he had SLE and administered treatment. He is much better now,” she recalled.

In another instance, she added, a young, pale girl was rushed to the hospital. She was affected neurologically, and kept screaming and running around, the doctor added. 

The disease is found to be more common among women – nine out of ten patients are women, falling in the age group between 15 and 40 years. This is because of oestrogen which increases the disease activity, doctors said. 

“Its common manifestations are as skin disease in the form of butterfly rash over the cheeks, oral ulcer, photosensitivity, excessive hair fall, prolonged fever, joint pain and swelling,” added Dr Hema.