Objective: To determine the factors related to low bone density in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis. Method: The prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Rheumatology Department of Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from June 1 to November 30, 2020, and comprised postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis. On the basis of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan of total hip, femoral neck, and lumbar spine, the subjects were categorised into osteoporosis, osteopenia and normal bone density groups. The risk factors were compared across these subgroups. Data was analysed using SPSS 21. Results: Of the 114 women, 74(64.9%) had osteoporosis, 31(27.2%) had osteopenia and 9(7.9%) had normal bone mineral density. Those with osteoporosis were older (p<0.05), had low body mass index (p<0.002) and had a longer duration since menopause (p<0.004) compared to the other groups. Age and body mass index were significant factors associated with the condition (p<0.05). Conclusion: Older age, lesser body mass index and time since menopause were the factors significantly associated with osteoporosis. Key Words: Rheumatoid arthritis, DXA, Bone mineral density.

Objective: To see the clinical and immunological profile of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and their correlation with the central nervous system and renal involvement. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Fauji Foundation Hospital Rawalpindi from Sep 2019 to Sep 2020. Methodology: One hundred forty patients were selected according to SLE ACR (American College of Rheumatology) criteria. Detailed history and examination, including dermatological examination, were done, and blood samples were taken for baseline investigations and SLE-related autoimmune profile. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 23 to determine the correlation between skin, central nervous system and renal involvement. Results: In our study, among the lupus-specific lesions, photosensitivity was most frequent 119 (85%) finding followed by oral ulcers 114 (81.4%), alopecia 112 (80%) and malar rash 81 (57.9%). Among the immunological profile, antinuclear antibody (ANA) was the most frequent 116 (82.9%) finding, followed by anti-double stranded antibody 71 (51.7%). Hypocomplementemia and anti-Sm antibody was significantly associated with lupus nephritis (p-value <0.05). There was no correlation between skin and neuropsychiatric involvement and skin and nephritis. Conclusion: This study depicts the clinical immune profile of SLE patients in Pakistan. In our patients, autoimmune profile and complement levels could predict renal involvement.

Objective: To determine the relationship between demographic variables and the level of disease awareness among patients of Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Study Design: Cross-sectional study Place and Duration of Study: Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar 2019 to Jan 2020. Methodology: The study included 150 patients, diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus according to SLICC criteria. A self-made questionnaire was used, including three sets of questions. The first set collected information on socio-demographic characteristics, and the second set gathered information regarding the symptoms and treatment. While, the third was based on aetiology, aspects of life affected and sources of disease knowledge. Results: A total of 150 participants' data was analysed; the majority of those were females. The mean age was 36.19±12.08 years and 17.3% of the patients had adequate knowledge of the disease. There were no statistically significant differences in awareness based on gender, education level and geographical distribution. Conclusion: SLE is a two-pronged sword that affects patients' mental and physical health. Patient awareness remains an important aspect of disease management which is currently not emphasized appropriately. At the community and national levels, measures must be taken to promote and create awareness regarding SLE.