How is NPSLE diagnosed?

There is no one single diagnostic tool specific to NPSLE, and clinical diagnostic impressions must be based on the combined use of immunoserological testing, functional and/or structural neuroimaging and standardized neurological, rheumatological, psychiatric and neuropsychological assessments.

How do you treat NPSLE?

The management of NPSLE is multimodal and has not been subjected to rigorous study. Different treatment regimens include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulation, and immunosuppressives such as cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and methotrexate.

What is NPSLE?

When lupus affects the brain, spinal cord or other nerves, it is called neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) or central nervous system (CNS) lupus. This happens in about 40% of all people who have systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. It is a lifelong disease with quiet spells and flare-ups.

What are the symptoms of neuropsychiatric lupus?

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are common in lupus patients, and their recognition is important. There are five psychiatric symptoms according to the ACR classification: cognitive dysfunction, mood disorder, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and acute confusional state.

Is neuropsychiatric lupus fatal?

Symptoms of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus may range from mild diffuse ones, to acute life threatening events.

How long does someone with lupus live?

However, the majority of people with lupus can expect a normal or near-normal life expectancy. Research has shown that many people with a lupus diagnosis have been living with the disease for up to 40 years.

How long can SLE patients survive?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is still a disease with significant mortality. Although 5 yr after diagnosis 92% of patients are alive, the prognosis falls to 82% survival at 10 yr, 76% at 15 yr and only 68% at 20 yr in Toronto [1].

How does SLE affect the brain?

If your brain is affected by lupus, you may experience headaches, dizziness, behavior changes, vision problems, and even strokes or seizures. Many people with lupus experience memory problems and may have difficulty expressing their thoughts. Blood and blood vessels.

Will SLE cause death?

Results: SLE was the most common cause of death, occurring in 49 patients (34%), followed by infection (n = 32; 22%), cardiovascular disease (n = 23; 16%), cerebrovascular disease (n = 8; 6%), and cancer (n = 8; 6%).