Name: Nisha Thapa
Researcher
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Department of Infection and Immunology
Summary
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can attack the brain and nervous system, causing neuropsychiatric lupus (NPSLE), with seizures, stroke, psychosis, memory problems, severe headaches and mood disorders. Unrecognized pain also worsens depression and quality of life. In Nepal, the true burden is unknown. Lupus Nepal estimates over 10,000 people live with lupus, yet only 500 are registered, and no national database exists because of limited government funding. Advocacy relies mainly on patients and a few clinicians. Stigma deepens the problem. Mental health conditions are often blamed on bad deeds or moral failing, so many patients stay silent and delay care. Studies of Lupus Nepal members describe fear, anxiety, depression, loneliness, hopelessness, negative body image and self-blame, affecting work and relationships. No brain awareness program for people with lupus has been conducted in Nepal. This project fills that gap by helping patients, clinicians and researchers understand how lupus affects the brain, clarifying mental health needs, and building the case for awareness and research. It is a first step toward breaking the silence and turning lived experience into evidence.
Team Members
| SN | Name | Gender | Designation |
| 1. | Nisha Thapa | Female | Chair, Researcher, Department of Infection and Immunology |
| 2. | Anurag Adhikari, PhD | Male | Member, Senior Researcher, Department of Infection and Immunology |
| 3. | Sagar Aryal, PhD | Male | Member, Senior Researcher, Department of Natural Products |
| 4. | Daisy Awale | Female | Member, Junior Researcher, Department of Infection and Immunology |
| 5. | Monika Chaudhary | Female | Member, Junior Researcher, Department of Infection and Immunology |
| 6. | Sandeep Shakya | Male | Member, Research Intern, Department of Infection and Immunology |
| 7. | Biraj Manandhar | Male | Member, Research Intern, Department of Infection and Immunology |
Clinical Team
| Name | Designation |
| Dr. Abhilasha Shah | Rheumatologist |
| Dr. Ujjwol Risal | Rheumatologist, Clinical Researcher |
| Dr. Pramisha Pokharel | Neurophysicatirst |