Autoimmune diseases in children occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, leading to inflammation and damage to various organs. These conditions are typically treated by pediatric rheumatologists, immunologists, or other specialists, depending on the affected system.

Since Dr. Shakhawat Alam is a Pediatric and Neonatal Cardiologist, his primary expertise is in heart-related conditions. However, some autoimmune diseases can affect the heart, in which case he may be involved in the cardiac evaluation and treatment.

Common Autoimmune Diseases in Children & Treatment:

1. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Rheumatologists
   • Treatment: NSAIDs, DMARDs (Methotrexate), Biologics (Etanercept)
2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Rheumatologists, Nephrologists
   • Treatment: Steroids, Immunosuppressants (Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide)
3. Kawasaki Disease (Affects the Heart)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Cardiologists (including Dr. Shakhawat Alam)
   • Treatment: IV Immunoglobulin (IVIG), Aspirin, Echocardiography to monitor heart complications
4. Rheumatic Fever (Can Lead to Heart Disease)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Cardiologists, Rheumatologists
   • Treatment: Antibiotics (Penicillin), Anti-inflammatory medications, Long-term heart monitoring
5. Type 1 Diabetes (Autoimmune Attack on Pancreas)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Endocrinologists
   • Treatment: Insulin therapy, Blood sugar management
6. Autoimmune Myocarditis (Heart Inflammation)
   • Treated by: Pediatric Cardiologists (Dr. Shakhawat Alam may be involved)
   • Treatment: Immunosuppressants, Steroids, Heart function monitoring

When Dr. Shakhawat Alam Might Be Involved:

✔ If an autoimmune disease affects the heart or blood vessels
✔ If the child has congenital heart defects alongside an autoimmune condition
✔ If Echocardiography is needed to assess heart involvement in diseases like Kawasaki Disease or Rheumatic Fever