In a display of expertise and coordinated care, clinicians at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Navi Mumbai successfully managed a complex case involving 22-year-old Ms. Gauri Gaikwad a resident of Belapur, who was admitted with severe health complications, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, and Polyarthritis – indicating inflammation, pain, and stiffness in five or more joints simultaneously. Her condition required advanced treatment and multi-disciplinary care in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Ms. Gaikwad had been experiencing health issues for the past three months, starting with minor symptoms such as generalized weakness and mild pain in the knees. By mid-November 2025, her condition had worsened significantly, with severe knee pain and difficulty walking. She also reported digestive issues, including discomfort, bloating, and indigestion, which were affecting her overall well-being. She was advised by her local doctor to visit Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi for further evaluation and specialized care.
Upon admission on 2nd December 2025, the patient was diagnosed with another health challenge, severe Aortic Stenosis, a heart condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow. She was also diagnosed with breathing difficulties, requiring intubation (a procedure where a tube is inserted to help the patient breathe) and mechanical ventilation to support her respiratory function. As her condition had worsened rapidly over the past few months, the medical team at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital worked together to meticulously plan her care plan, and stabilize her while addressing a variety of complications, including anemia, enlarged spleen and liver.
The patient was treated with a combination of high-dose steroids (MPS) and IVIG therapy (intravenous immunoglobulin) to control her immune response and prevent further damage. Additionally, Rituximab (a monoclonal antibody drug) was given to help manage her autoimmune response. A multi-disciplinary team, comprising Cardiologists, Rheumatologists, Neurologists, and intensive care physicians, collaborated closely to address her complex needs, ensuring that each medical aspect of her condition was comprehensively managed. Brain scans revealed Cerebral Atrophy (progressive loss of brain issue) and Periventricular Ischemic Changes (reduced blood flow to the brain), prompting further neurological investigations and management.
With multi-disciplinary approach, the patient received care from various specialists including Dr. Swapnil Khadke, Head of Critical Care Medicine at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, as well as doctors across the following specialties - Neurology, Cardiology, and Rheumatology. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Khadke and other specialists were scheduled to ensure comprehensive recovery and address any emerging complications. As of March 2026, patient has completed her final follow-up visit and reported to be in good health, with no ongoing concerns.
Following five days of IVIG therapy and Rituximab infusion, Ms. Gaikwad’s condition improved significantly. She regained consciousness, with stable vital signs and improved oxygen levels. Dr. Khadke said, “Ms. Gaikwad’s recovery underscores the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach in treating complex, multi-system illnesses. The team’s quick action and coordinated efforts in managing her critical condition ensured a favourable outcome and recovery.”
Ms. Gaikwad was also monitored for any complications that may arise from the tracheostomy (a procedure for assisting with breathing) and urethral swelling, which were managed by specialists in Gynecology and Urology departments. Furthermore, she underwent a speech valve trial to assist her recovery after prolonged mechanical ventilation. The medical team also periodically administered Rituximab to address her autoimmune disease, adjusting the dosage for optimal results. After several days of intensive care and stabilization, the patient was discharged in a stable condition on 31st December 2025. The clinical teams at the hospital continued to monitor her recovery as part of the treatment plan.
Ms. Gaikwad shared her experience with the overall treatment, “I am truly grateful to the doctors, nurses, and the entire team at Fortis for their dedicated care. After months of pain and discomfort, I feel like I have my life back. The treatments worked wonders, and with the support of my family and the medical team, I’m excited to continue my recovery. Now that my treatment is complete, I’m looking forward to finding a job and moving forward with my career plans.”
Dr. Khadke added, “Managing complex cases like Ms. Gaikwad’s requires not only advanced medical knowledge but also an understanding of how multiple health conditions interact. By providing coordinated care, we were able to address all her needs, stabilize her condition, and support her recovery. We remain committed to providing the highest quality care for all our patients.”
This successful recovery highlights Fortis Hiranandani Hospital's commitment to offering advanced medical treatments and innovative therapies, ensuring better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients in Navi Mumbai and beyond.
