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[Pseudotumor cerebri and systemic lupus erythematosus]

A Herrero Valverde1, J Mera Campillo, A Zea Mendoza

  • 1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.

Revista Clinica Espanola
|February 28, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Pseudotumor cerebri (PC) is a rare neurological condition causing increased intracranial pressure. This case highlights a successful treatment of PC in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) using corticosteroids.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Pseudotumor cerebri (PC), or idiopathic intracranial hypertension, presents with elevated intracranial pressure without a clear cause.
  • PC is associated with various systemic conditions and medications.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations.

Observation:

  • A patient with a seven-year history of SLE presented with symptoms of PC, including headache, vomiting, and blurred vision.
  • Bilateral papilledema, a key sign of increased intracranial pressure, was observed.
  • The patient's medical history included a confirmed diagnosis of SLE.

Findings:

  • High-dose corticosteroid therapy was initiated for the patient's PC symptoms.
  • Rapid resolution of clinical symptoms and papilledema was achieved following treatment.
  • This suggests a potential link between SLE and the development of PC.

Implications:

  • Corticosteroids may be an effective treatment for PC in patients with SLE.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between SLE and PC.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for managing PC and preserving vision.

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