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Patient Education

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

A complex autoimmune disease that requires expert, long-term multi-system care.
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Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Advice
FAQs
Related
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Overview

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks multiple organs — skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain. It most commonly affects women of reproductive age. With modern therapy and vigilant follow-up, most patients live full lives and can safely plan pregnancies.

Symptoms

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Butterfly-shaped facial rash across cheeks and nose
  • Sensitivity to sunlight
  • Mouth ulcers, hair loss and fever
  • Kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) — sometimes silent

    • Causes

    • Complex interaction of genetics, hormones and environmental triggers
    • Ultraviolet light exposure
    • Certain infections and medications
    • Female sex hormones (women are affected up to nine times more often)

    Diagnosis

  • ANA and specific autoantibody testing (anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm, anti-Ro, anti-La)
  • Complement levels (C3, C4)
  • Complete blood count and urinalysis
  • Kidney biopsy when nephritis is suspected
  • Comprehensive organ screening

    • Treatment Options

  • Hydroxychloroquine — the cornerstone for almost every patient
  • Immunosuppressants such as Mycophenolate or Azathioprine
  • Biologic therapy (Belimumab, Rituximab) for severe or refractory disease
  • Careful management of blood pressure, cholesterol and bone health
  • Vaccination and infection prevention

    • Lifestyle Advice

  • Strict sun protection — SPF 50+, hats, protective clothing
  • Never miss Hydroxychloroquine doses
  • Prioritise sleep and stress management
  • Balanced diet with heart-healthy fats
  • Plan pregnancies with your rheumatologist for the safest outcome
    • FAQ

    Common questions about Lupus (SLE)

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    Joint Pain & Autoimmune

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    Read the guide

    Osteoporosis

    The silent bone-thinning disease — preventable and treatable when detected on time.

    Read the guide
    In the consultation

    How this condition is managed in clinic

    A look inside daily practice — explaining diagnoses, reviewing imaging, and guiding patients of every age through their care plan.

    X-RAY REVIEW WITH PATIENT
    JOINT EXAMINATION
    EVIDENCE-BASED COUNSEL
    DEXA BONE-DENSITY REVIEW
    FAMILY CONSULTATION
    ANATOMY WALK-THROUGH

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    Dr. Avinash Punshi
    Consultant Physician & Rheumatologist
    Compassionate, evidence-based rheumatology care across Karachi — helping patients live free of joint pain, longer.
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    • Doctor Ziauddin Hospital
      Clifton Campus, Block 2
      Mon · Wed · Fri·1:00 – 4:00 PM
      Fees Rs. 2,500
    • Ziauddin Hospital
      Kemari Branch
      Wednesday·12:00 – 2:00 PM
    • Ziauddin Hospital
      North Nazimabad, Block 2
      Tue · Thu · Sat·1:00 – 3:00 PM
      Fees Rs. 2,500
    • Rim Trauma Hospital
      PECHS Block 6, Shahrah-e-Faisal
      Tue · Thu · Sat·4:30 – 6:00 PM
      Fees Rs. 2,000
    • South City Hospital
      Shahrah-e-Firdousi, Clifton
      Tue · Thu·6:30 – 8:30 PM
      Fees Rs. 3,500
    • Islamabad Diagnostic Centre
      Rafiq Plaza, Lucky Star
      Mon · Wed · Fri · Sat·7:30 – 10:00 PM
      Fees Rs. 2,000
    • Islamabad Diagnostic Centre
      Rafiq Plaza, Lucky Star
      Tue · Thu·9:00 – 10:00 PM
      Fees Rs. 2,000
    Saturday appointments are subject to confirmation before your visit.

    Appointments: Mr. Vishal · +92 301 2399339

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    Consultant Physician & Rheumatologist · Karachi, Pakistan

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