A Lady with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated with Central Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboses and cerebrovascular diseases. Herein, we discuss the case of a young 38-year-old Asian lady who was presented with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) shortly after she was diagnosed with SLE. She developed headache, right hemiparesis and sustained an episode of seizure on the first presentation. CVST was diagnosed with plain computed tomography (CT) of the brain and CT venogram. With prompt administration of anticoagulation and immunosuppressant treatment for SLE, she had an excellent neurological recovery. There are many different risk factors for developing CVST in SLE patients. It has been reported in literature that CVST is usually associated with antiphospholipid antibodies but only around 40% of them would have positive antiphospholipid antibodies indicating that there are also other mechanisms contributing to the process [1]. As CVST in SLE is a rare condition, no standardized treatment strategy has been delineated. The main cornerstone of treatment would be anticoagulation and appropriate treatment for SLE as these patients are commonly associated with underlying active SLE. With timely management, the prognosis for CVST in SLE patients is generally favourable.