Lupus Eye Disease in Delhi: Retinal Vasculitis, Optic Neuritis & Ischemic Optic Neuropathy — What to Know and Where to Get Expert Care

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can affect the eyes as well as other organs, so vision symptoms must never be ignored. Many patients with lupus notice dry or red eyes, but a serious subset develop retinal vasculitis, optic neuritis, or ischemic optic neuropathy that can rapidly threaten sight. Research suggests that up to one-third of people with SLE experience some form of ocular involvement during their disease course. MDPI

Why should Delhi patients pay attention?

In a busy city like Delhi quick access to a specialist makes a big difference. Urban lifestyles and the stress of managing a chronic disease can delay care-seeking. If you live here and experience sudden vision loss, flashes of light, new floaters, or dramatic colour changes, get assessed without delay. Clinics that combine retina and inflammatory eye expertise provide faster diagnosis and coordinated therapy for lupus-related eye disease.

What retinal vasculitis is — and why it matters?

Retinal vasculitis describes inflammation of retinal blood vessels. Blood vessel wall damage leads to leakage, haemorrhages, cotton-wool spots and sometimes vessel occlusion, which causes retinal ischemia. Severe cases can lead to permanent vision loss or neovascular complications if not treated rapidly. Early fluorescein angiography and retinal imaging help define the extent of involvement so the right systemic therapy can be started.

Retinal Vasculitis

Optic neuritis and ischemic optic neuropathy explained

Optic neuritis occurs when inflammation affects the optic nerve, producing sudden vision loss, pain with eye movement at times, and colour vision changes. Lupus-related optic nerve disease may result from immune-mediated inflammation or vascular compromise in the nerve head. Ischemic optic neuropathy is predominantly a blood-flow problem that usually causes painless, abrupt loss of vision and an afferent pupillary defect. Both conditions are potentially sight threatening and need urgent evaluation.

How doctors diagnose lupus eye complications

A specialist ophthalmologist uses slit-lamp and dilated fundus exams first. Imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), and visual field testing show retinal perfusion, edema, and nerve damage. Blood tests and close coordination with a rheumatologist help to establish whether SLE activity is driving the eye problem and whether systemic immunosuppression is needed.

Typical treatments and what to expect

High-dose intravenous steroids are often the first step for severe retinal vasculitis or optic neuritis. Immunosuppressive agents or biologics may follow if disease activity persists or recurs. Laser or anti-VEGF therapy can address neovascular complications after ischemic injury. Long-term monitoring is essential because relapses are possible and early retreatment preserves vision. Treatment choices are individualized and made together by ophthalmology and rheumatology teams.

Signs that need emergency evaluation

Sudden drop in vision, new severe eye pain, a central dark patch in vision, or double vision are red flags. Immediate referral to an ophthalmologist experienced in inflammatory retina and optic nerve disease gives the best chance of recovery. Time is vision when ischemia or severe inflammation is present, so don’t delay. PMC

Why choose a specialist centre in Delhi?

Access to advanced retinal imaging and the ability to start systemic therapy quickly are the main advantages of a specialist centre. Patients who get coordinated care from both ophthalmologists and rheumatologists usually have better outcomes. Residents of Delhi looking for focused care may find comprehensive evaluation, in-house imaging, and experience in inflammatory eye disease crucial when decisions about IV steroids or immunosuppressants are being made.

About Amvision Eye & Child Care and Dr. Chirag Mittal

Amvision Eye & Child Care is a super-specialty eye centre serving Delhi with retina and cornea services, modern imaging, and a team approach. Dr. Chirag Mittal (MBBS, DNB Opthal; fellow LV Prasad Eye Institute) leads clinical care at Amvision and has a track record in cornea, retina evaluation, and surgical care. Patients in Delhi can book appointments there for urgent retinal or optic nerve concerns.

Practical self-care and monitoring tips

Keep a symptom diary noting the time and character of vision changes. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if vision is impaired. Maintain regular rheumatology follow-ups and share any new eye symptoms promptly. Wearing good sunglasses and addressing other vascular risk factors like high blood pressure and smoking helps reduce ischemic risk.

FAQs — quick answers for Delhi patients

Can lupus cause sudden blindness?

Yes, severe retinal vasculitis or ischemic optic neuropathy can cause abrupt vision loss. Immediate care improves the chance of recovery.

What tests will an ophthalmologist order?

Expect OCT, fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, visual fields, and neuro-imaging if optic nerve involvement is suspected. Coordination with your rheumatologist is typical.

Are these eye problems common in SLE?

Milder ocular signs are common; sight-threatening complications are less common but important because of their severity. Up to one-third of patients may have some ocular symptom at some point.

Will systemic therapy cure the eye disease?

Treatment controls inflammation and reduces risk of further damage. Some vision loss may be irreversible if treatment is delayed. Early, aggressive therapy gives the best outcomes.

How do I book an appointment with Dr. Chirag Mittal at Amvision?

Amvision Eye & Child Care maintains an online presence and local listings for bookings. Contact details and clinic hours are available on their website and local doctor-listing sites.