How is lupus erythematosus treated in children?

Apr 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

The treatment methods for childhood lupus erythematosus depend on the severity of symptoms and may generally include rest and dietary management, avoidance of direct sunlight, psychological support, medication, and surgical intervention. Ensure the child gets adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue. Provide a nutritious and easily digestible diet, with attention to sufficient protein, vitamin, and mineral intake to meet the child's normal growth, development, and nutritional needs.

Generally, the treatment methods for childhood lupus erythematosus depend on the severity of symptoms and may include rest and diet management, avoidance of direct sunlight, psychological support, medication, and surgical treatment. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Rest and Diet

Ensure the child gets sufficient rest and avoid excessive fatigue. Provide a nutritious and easily digestible diet, emphasizing adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals to support normal growth, development, and nutritional needs.

2. Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure

Children with lupus erythematosus have skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light and should avoid direct sunlight. When outdoors, they should wear long-sleeved clothing, hats, and use umbrellas. Additionally, children-specific sunscreen can be applied.

3. Psychological Support

Childhood lupus erythematosus is a chronic illness that may affect the child's psychological well-being. Parents and healthcare providers should monitor the child's emotional state, provide psychological support and encouragement, and seek assistance from a mental health professional when necessary, to help the child build confidence in managing the disease.

4. Medication

For children with relatively mild symptoms, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Under medical guidance, glucocorticoids such as methylprednisolone tablets and prednisone acetate tablets, along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin enteric-coated tablets and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Surgical Treatment

If the condition is not treated promptly and becomes severe, leading to aseptic necrosis of the femoral head, joint replacement surgery may be recommended under a doctor's guidance.

In addition, to monitor drug response and treatment effectiveness, regular follow-up visits are necessary.

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Elevated red blood cells in a child's routine urinalysis may be caused by vigorous exercise, urethritis, nutcracker syndrome, urinary tract stones, acute glomerulonephritis, or other factors such as medications or systemic lupus erythematosus. If the underlying cause is unclear, it is recommended to have the child undergo relevant examinations to establish a clear diagnosis before initiating treatment.

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