Centers of Excellence: Lupus

Since its establishment in 1992 under Raphael DeHoratius, a world-recognized expert in this incurable autoimmune disease that typically attacks females 20 to 40 years old, the Lupus Center at Jefferson has treated thousands of women, trained innumerable physicians and conducted invaluable research. The practice brings together a group of lupus sub-specialists including rheumatologists, nephrologists, dermatologists, pulmonologists, hematologists, and, in particular, high-risk gynecologists. One of its significant services is the management of pregnancy, as lupus patients have trouble with conception and premature delivery. This is a referral center for the entire region, frequently treating patients who cannot be helped elsewhere. In addition to medical treatment, it’s not unusual for staffers to aid in an emotional crisis. They’ve helped a 25-year-old woman get through final exams when her lupus flared up, and helped a high-school senior squeeze into her prom shoes when lupus swelled her ankles to twice their normal size (111 South 11th Street, 800-JEFF-NOW, jeffersonhospital.org/rheumatology).