Rare, Life-Threatening Autoimmune Condition Successfully Managed at KMC Hospital, Attavar
Mangaluru: Showcasing advanced multidisciplinary expertise, doctors at KMC Hospital Attavar, Mangalore, efficiently treated and discharged a patient with a rare, life-threatening rheumatological disorder complicated by a severe infection. The patient was diagnosed with lupus, a rare autoimmune disorder presenting as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) and life-threatening recurrent bleeding from the lungs, requiring prolonged hospitalization. The illness followed a stormy clinical course over nearly three months, involving multiple organs and critical complications.
During treatment, the patient developed mucormycosis of the lung, a serious fungal infection requiring intensive antifungal therapy with four weeks of intravenous Amphotericin B. Managing aggressive immunosuppression alongside a life-threatening infection posed significant clinical challenges.
The patient required multiple sessions of plasma exchange, Rituximab therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and carefully monitored corticosteroid treatment to control the refractory autoimmune disease.
The case was managed by the Department of Rheumatology in collaboration with the Nephrology team and Infection Services.
After an intensive and carefully monitored treatment course, the patient showed steady recovery, stabilization of kidney function, resolution of lung involvement, and control of the infection, and was subsequently discharged in stable condition.
The Department of Rheumatology at KMC Attavar, Mangalore, is recognized for advanced care in managing complex autoimmune and inflammatory diseases with multi-system involvement.