Neuropsychiatric involvement in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

Lupus. 2007;16(8):564-71. doi: 10.1177/0961203307078971.

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric (NP) manifestations are found in approximately 25% of children and adolescents with pediatric SLE (pSLE). In 70% of those, NP involvement will occur within the first year from the time of diagnosis. Headaches (66%), psychosis (36%), cognitive dysfunction (27%) and cerebrovascular disease (24%) are the most common presentations. The support of a psychiatrist is often required. Anti-phospholipid antibodies are associated with distinct NP disease entities and may be implicated in the pathogenesis of several manifestations of NP-pSLE including chorea, cerebrovascular disease and seizures. The role of novel auto-antibodies and imaging modalities is currently explored. The treatment of NP-pSLE is not based on prospective studies; however, an immunosuppressive combination therapy consisting of high doses of prednisone and a second line agent such as cyclophosphamide or azathioprine is commonly suggested for children with NP-pSLE. The role of novel therapies is currently studied. The outcome of children with NP-pSLE is relatively good. The overall survival is 95-97%, 20% of children experience a disease flare during childhood and 25% have evidence of permanent neuropsychiatric damage.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / etiology
  • Child
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Headache / etiology
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / diagnosis*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / psychology*
  • Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System / diagnosis*
  • Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System / psychology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mental Disorders / etiology
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / etiology
  • Seizures / etiology