[Early CNS manifestations in lupus erythematosus (author's transl)]

CNS involvement is a rare manifestation of collagen disease. But in three patients with lupus erythematosus (L.E.) the disease was from its onset characterized by CNS signs: epileptic seizures, cerebellar ataxia, and organic psychosis. The combination of epilepsy or organic psychosis with inflammatory joint disease should make one consider L.E. in the differential diagnosis, even if there is no close time relationship between the occurrence of these signs. Muscle biopsy, EEG recordings and CSF examinations may be of diagnostic value in addition to serological and immunological studies.