Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic Established At LGH

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Jul, 2025) The treatment network at Lahore General Hospital has been upgraded with the launch

of specialized facilities for children suffering from joint pain, marking the establishment

of a dedicated Pediatric Rheumatology outpatient clinic.

An inaugural ceremony was held on Wednesday with the participation of leading medical

professionals and health officials.

The clinic, launched under the health vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif , aims

to provide early diagnosis and specialized care for children affected by joint-related and autoimmune

conditions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Principal of Ameer-ud-Din Medical College Professor Farooq Afzal

announced the appointment of Professor of Rheumatology Dr Samira Farman Raja as Visiting

Faculty.

He said Dr Raja will not only provide treatment to patients but also train young doctors in pediatric

rheumatology.

Professor Afzal praised the contributions of Professor Muhammad Shahid and MS Professor Faryad

Hussain in establishing the clinic.

He stressed the importance of early detection of rheumatology, a hereditary disease, urging parents with a history of joint conditions to ensure timely medical checkups for their children.

In her address, Dr Samira Farman Raja stated that the clinic will cater to children experiencing symptoms

such as joint stiffness, swelling, persistent fever, rashes, fatigue, and eye inflammation.

She emphasized the importance of delivering timely and high-quality medical services for effective management of complex pediatric rheumatological issues.

Head of the Pediatric Department, Professor Muhammad Shahid, highlighted the acute shortage of pediatric rheumatologists in Pakistan. He noted that millions of children suffer silently due to a lack of proper diagnosis. “It’s a silent disease that hampers physical development. With timely diagnosis and treatment, children can lead normal lives,” he added. He also recommended the use of modern medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments to improve outcomes.

Professor Faryad Hussain, sharing a personal account, mentioned that his mother has been a rheumatology patient for 20 years. He expressed hope that the new clinic would serve as a vital resource for affected children. He explained that pediatric rheumatology covers arthritis, body pain, immune disorders, and inflammation, and warned against mistaking symptoms for general aches or viral fevers.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of honorary shields to Parliamentary Secretary for Health Rashda Lodhi and Professor Samira Farman Raja. Distinguished attendees included Principal PGMI Professor Farooq Afzal, Professor Muhammad Shahid, Professor Faryad Hussain, Dr Hassan Salman Malik, Dr. Hooria Rehman, and a large number of medical professionals.