Neurologic, ophthalmic, and neuropsychiatric manifestations of pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune, multisystem disorder with diverse manifestations. There are limited reports on the neuro-ophthalmic and neuropsychiatric findings in childhood SLE.

Case report: An 8-year-old patient with suspected SLE with a history of skin rash, joint pain, transient hematologic abnormality, headaches, seizures, and psychosis, presented with papilledema secondary to acquired, obstructive hydrocephalus.

Discussion: SLE-related ocular and neuropsychiatric findings are reviewed. Proposed mechanisms for ocular and cerebral lupus include immune complex deposition, vascular thrombosis, and postinflammatory lesions.

Conclusion: The prevalent neurologic and neuropsychiatric complications of pediatric SLE require close follow-up and interdisciplinary management.