Best Doctors for Lupus in Delhi

Types/Stages of Lupus

Lupus comprises several types:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): This is the most common and severe type, affecting multiple organs and systems in the body.

• Discoid lupus: This type primarily causes a persistent rash on the skin, often appearing on the face and scalp. It usually does not affect internal organs.

• Subacute cutaneous lupus: Characterised by skin lesions on sun-exposed areas, these lesions can be scaly and may heal with scarring.

• Drug-induced lupus: This is caused by certain medications and is typically less severe than SLE.

• Neonatal lupus: This rare form can affect newborns whose mothers have lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome antibodies. Symptoms usually resolve within months after birth.

Symptoms of Lupus

People with Lupus experience a variety of symptoms including:

• Joint and muscle pain

• Fever and fatigue

• Skin rashes often resembling a butterfly across the cheeks

• Sensitivity to sunlight

• Mouth sores

• Raynaud’s phenomenon where fingers or toes turn white or blue in response to cold temperatures

• Swelling in the legs or around the eyes

Tests to Diagnose Lupus

The best doctors for lupus treatment employ several diagnostic tests, including:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormalities in these levels can indicate inflammation or anaemia, which are common in lupus.

• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube of blood. Elevated ESR levels can suggest inflammation.

• Kidney and Liver assessment: Blood tests such as serum creatinine and liver enzymes assess the functioning of these organs.

• Urinalysis: This test checks for an increased protein level (proteinuria) or red blood cells in urine (haematuria).

• Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) test: A positive test indicates an autoimmune disease, but further testing is required to confirm Lupus.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lupus at Apollo Hospitals in Delhi:

Apollo Hospitals, Delhi provides a comprehensive range of treatment options including, guided by doctors specialising in lupus treatment:

• Anti-inflammatory medications: These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in joints and muscles.

• Antimalarial drugs: Often prescribed to manage symptoms of lupus, these medications can help reduce skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue.

• Immunosuppressants: These drugs are used to suppress the abnormal activity of the immune system, which is attacking the body’s own tissues.

• Biologic drugs: These are designed to specifically modulate parts of the immune system involved in the inflammatory processes of lupus.