[Multiple aneurysms and cerebral vasculitis in systemic lupus erythematosus]

Abstract

A female in whom systemic lupus erythematosus had been diagnosed 5 years before suddenly developed headache and recurrent vomiting. Cranial computed tomography (CT) was consistent with subarachnoid hemorrhage, and cerebral arteriography disclosed cerebral aneurysms, multiple microaneurysms and cerebral vasculitis. After 7 days she developed left hemiparesis, and a cerebral infarct area was apparent in a new CT scan. Despite the poor prognosis of these lesions, the patient had a favorable outcome, without residual neurological deficit, after having been treated with intravenous corticosteroid boluses and oral cyclophosphamide.