2011 Volume 23 Issue 1 Pages 42-51
Neuropsychiatric manifestations are common in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and are associated with a worsening prognosis, more cumulative organ damage, and decreased quality of life (QOL). The pathogenic mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric manifestations of SLE (NPSLE) are likely to be multifactorial and may involve vasculopathy of predominantly small intracranial blood vessels, autoantibody production, and intrathecal production of proinflammatory cytokines. No disease-specific diagnostic markers or diagnostic gold standard is known for NPSLE. Thus, the first step of the diagnostic work-up is to exclude non-SLE-related conditions. The correct diagnosis is derived from careful analysis of the clinical, laboratory, and imaging data on a case-by-case basis. This article reviews the current literature, especially related to the diagnostic and management aspects of NPSLE, which will be useful for consultation-liaison psychiatrists.
