Dr. Nguyen Phuc Tan of the Clinical Immunology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that lupus is an autoimmune disease. It arises when the immune system malfunctions, overreacts, and attacks the body's own cells instead of harmful viruses and bacteria. Autoimmune diseases can manifest in over 100 different forms and negatively impact multiple organs simultaneously, including the nervous system, heart, lungs, skin, eyes, kidneys, and musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Tan developed a treatment plan for Long involving medication to reduce symptoms and control the disease, along with topical creams for the rash. After starting the medication, Long's fever subsided. He had a follow-up appointment a week later and will require monthly check-ups to adjust medication dosage or change prescriptions as needed.

Dr. Tan examines a patient. Illustrative photo: Gia Hung

Dr. Tan examines a patient. Illustrative photo: Gia Hung

According to the Ministry of Health, lupus affects approximately 50 out of every 100,000 people in Vietnam, with women representing 90% of cases. Dr. Tan notes that lupus is linked to the hormone estrogen, which increases immune response. This contributes to a higher risk of developing the disease and can worsen its progression in some cases. Lupus is difficult to diagnose in its early stages, often mistaken for other illnesses, especially since symptoms vary among individuals. Symptoms may appear cyclically or diminish and disappear without treatment. However, the disease can also become severe, manifesting as acute or chronic inflammation of tissues, leading to dangerous complications requiring intensive and prolonged treatment.

While there's no cure for autoimmune diseases, Dr. Tan emphasizes that they can be managed with treatment. He advises patients with systemic lupus erythematosus against abruptly stopping their medication, especially corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. Doing so can cause flare-ups, disease progression, or severe symptom recurrence.

Patients should exercise regularly with gentle activities to maintain joint flexibility, protect cardiovascular health, and prevent strokes. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and calcium found in eggs, milk, butter, fish oil, cheese, and carrots is recommended, while fried and fatty foods should be limited.

To prevent osteoporosis, Dr. Tan recommends that lupus patients take vitamin D and calcium supplements as prescribed. Exposure to early morning sunlight aids vitamin D synthesis, but patients should protect their skin and avoid excessive sun exposure due to potential photosensitivity. Those using immunosuppressants should wash their hands frequently to prevent infection.

Gia Hung

*The patient's name has been changed.