Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026

Murine Bilateral Renal Lymphadenectomy
Published on: December 30, 2025
[Chorea, lupus and antiphospholipid antibodies]
P Reiner1, J-C Piette, G Leroux
1Service de neurologie, hôpital Lariboisière, université Paris-7, AP-HP, 75475 Paris cedex 10, France.
Insights
Chorea in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is linked to antiphospholipid antibodies and may increase the risk of future blood clots. Early treatment with antiplatelet agents and hydroxychloroquine can help manage symptoms and reduce risks.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Context:
- Chorea is a neurological complication observed in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
- The incidence of chorea in SLE ranges from 1-3% in adults and up to 9% in pediatric lupus patients.
- Chorea often presents as an initial symptom and is strongly associated with antiphospholipid antibodies.
Purpose:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment, and long-term risks associated with chorea in SLE patients.
- To evaluate the relationship between chorea, antiphospholipid antibodies, and subsequent thrombotic events.
- To assess the impact of management strategies, including antiplatelet agents, on patient outcomes.
Summary:
- Chorea in SLE is frequently linked to antiphospholipid antibodies.
- Standard treatment typically involves antiplatelet agents and hydroxychloroquine.
- Patients with SLE-associated chorea face elevated risks of arterial thrombotic events, obstetric complications, and valvular disease.
Impact:
- Identifying patients with SLE-related chorea is crucial for risk stratification.
- Proactive management, particularly with antiplatelet therapy and careful obstetric care, may mitigate serious complications.
- This highlights the importance of comprehensive monitoring for thrombotic and other risks in SLE patients presenting with chorea.
Abstract:
Chorea may occur in patients with SLE with a frequency estimated at 1 to 3% in adults and up to 9% in paediatric lupus. Chorea is frequently a presenting feature, and is strongly related to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. A treatment with antiplatelet agents and hydroxychloroquine is generally sufficient. During follow-up, the patients with chorea have a significant higher risk to develop thrombotic events (mainly arterial). They also have an excess risk of obstetric morbidity and valvular disease. The prescription of antiplatelet agents and adequate management, especially during pregnancy, can probably reduce this risk.
Related Concept Videos
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology
Autoimmune Disorders
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system...
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
