Khamsouk’s treatment for Lupus

Fourteen-year-old Khamsouk first visited Lao Friends Hospital for Children after developing unusual skin rashes. He typically responded to treatment, but the rashes eventually reappeared.

In August, his family once again brought Khamsouk to LFHC, but this time the rash was very different and included painful sores in his mouth which made it difficult for him to eat and drink. He was treated with steroids and showed some improvement during a five-day hospital stay. He returned home with his family, but returned less than two weeks later with worsening symptoms.

Khamsouk was again admitted and this time his hospitalization would span nearly three months. During that time, he battled through coma, seizures, lung infections, bleeding, hypertension and weight loss. LFHC doctors worked tirelessly to treat these problems, but struggled to identify their root cause.

A battery of tests eventually led doctors to conclude that Khamsouk was afflicted with lupus, an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal, healthy tissue. There’s no cure for lupus. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and minimizing flare-ups.

Khamsouk gradually responded to treatment and received physiotherapy and appropriate nutrition to support his rehabilitation. His family was always at his bedside and was eager to participate in his care. Thanks to LFHC’s comprehensive care, Khamsouk’s condition was stabilized and he was able to go home with his family. He continues to return for follow-up visits and the staff is closely monitoring his recovery.