Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: From the Standpoint of Department of Neurology

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), termed neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE), encompass a wide variety of neurological and psychiatric characteristics. A neuropsychiatric event may precede an SLE diagnosis; therefore, physicians must screen for SLE in patients presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms, if they are not already diagnosed with this condition. For assessing patients with SLE who present with neuropsychiatric symptoms, it is important to first determine whether the symptoms are caused by SLE (primary NPSLE), whether they are a complication of a therapy, or whether they are caused by other comorbidities. Accurate attribution of neuropsychiatric symptoms is vital for selecting therapeutic interventions.