Relief for Patients in Himachal: AIIMS Bilaspur Introduces Tests for Serious Muscle and Skin Diseases
Thousands of patients in Himachal Pradesh, who previously had to travel to Chandigarh, Delhi, or Jalandhar for treatment of mysterious muscle and skin-related diseases, now have a major relief. These tests and treatments are now available at AIIMS Bilaspur.
The Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology Department at AIIMS Bilaspur has initiated the procurement of advanced Line Immunoassay (LIA) kits to detect these complex diseases. Soon, 150 specialized test profiles for serious conditions like Myositis and Systemic Sclerosis will be available, reducing diagnostic costs by 70 to 80 percent and eliminating weeks-long waits for accurate reports.
The new LIA kits can detect more than 15 antigens on a single strip, meaning a single blood sample can reveal over 15 hidden dangerous markers (antibodies) in the body. Earlier, private labs charged ₹8,000–12,000 for these tests, and reports would take 10–15 days. At AIIMS, these tests will be available at government rates with results ready in just 48–72 hours.
These tests will enable early detection of “silent killer” diseases like Myositis, where the body’s immune system attacks its own muscles, leaving patients extremely weak. Systemic Sclerosis, also called the “stone disease,” hardens the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs like the lungs, which can be life-threatening if not treated early.
The new technology at AIIMS Bilaspur will not only detect these diseases early but also indicate if the infection is spreading to the heart or lungs, allowing timely intervention and better patient outcomes.
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