Autoimmune diseases (also known as rheumatic diseases) are made up of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, spondyloarthritis and osteoarthritis. The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology from Singapore General Hospital (SGH) explains.
Autoimmune diseases (rheumatic diseases) in Singapore
More than 600,000 people in Singapore, or about
11 per cent of the population, suffer from one of several autoimmune diseases (also known as rheumatic diseases).
Yet, little is known about this cluster of conditions that includes lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Many are complex autoimmune conditions in which the immune system turns against itself and attacks the body’s major organs.
"Autoimmune diseases (rheumatic diseases) often strike people in their prime, and tends to affect more women than men. In some cases, they are
twice as likely to affect Asians compared to Caucasians," shares
Professor Julian Thumboo, Senior Consultant from the
Department of Rheumatology and Immunology at Singapore General Hospital (SGH), a member of the
SingHealth group.
5 Life-changing autoimmune diseases (rheumatic diseases)
|
In
rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, such as the joints. It occurs two to three times more frequently in women than men.
Some symptoms: Pain and swelling of the joints, which typically persist for more than six weeks and is usually worst in the morning.
Why research is needed: If not well-treated, RA can lead to progressive joint damage, pain and loss of physical function. Some 20-30 per cent of patients do not respond to currently available therapies.
|
|
|
In
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or lupus), the immune system attacks organs like the kidneys, brain, intestines and skin, the blood and joints.
Some
symptoms: Commonly associated with a butterfly-shaped rash on the face which worsens with sun exposure. Can also lead to swelling around the eyelids, and of feet and legs.
Why research is needed: Lupus treatment isn’t one-size fits-all, being dependent on the symptoms and the organs affected. Early identification is needed to start treatment as soon as possible to prevent organ damage.
|
|
|
Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma or hard skin) causes uncontrolled overproduction of fibrous tissue, leading to scarring of organs and blockage of blood vessels.
Some symptoms: Puffy swollen fingers and skin hardening or tightness are among the first signs. Also joint pain and swelling, muscle weakness, breathlessness or persistent dry cough.
Why research is
needed: Lupus treatment isn’t a one-size fits- all, being dependent on the symptoms and the organs affected. Early identification is needed to start treatment as soon as possible to prevent organ damage.
|
|
|
In
Spondyloarthritis (SpA), the joints of the spine are affected, causing inflammation, severe pain and stiffness in the back. Can also affect the joints, digits and tendons in upper and lower limbs. Partly hereditary.
Some symptoms: Pain and stiffness in the lower back, especially bad in the morning, are among the first signs. The eyes may also be affected, and symptoms include redness and blurred vision.
Why research is needed: Scientists are investigating the genes and bio-markers that can help predict the group of patients likely to develop rapid disease progression.
|
|
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the
most common form of joint disease, affecting 10-20 per cent of the population, and is linked to age, obesity, sports injuries, family history and other forms of arthritis like gout.
Some symptoms: Recurring pain in affected joints or their surrounding muscles after prolonged or strenuous exercise is one of the first signs of the disease.
Why research is
needed: No proven treatment yet to delay the progression of the disease. Treatment is mostly aimed at symptom relief, so weight loss, exercise and physiotherapy are often recommended.
|
Ref: Q15
To learn more about rheumatic diseases, check out:
Rheumatoid Arthritis: What you Need to Know
Facts About Lupus: Who's At Risk?
Systemic Sclerosis: Symptoms and How to Manage
Spondyloarthritis: An Inflammatory Rheumatic Disease
Osteoarthritis: Pain and Inflammation of the Joints
Autoimmune Disorders: Frequently Asked Questions
