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Chorea and retinal vessel occlusion in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Vahid-Reza Ostovan1, Askar Ghorbani
1Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences AND Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Tehran, Iran.
Insights
This case report details a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who experienced both chorea and retinal vessel occlusion. These rare, co-occurring neurological complications highlight the diverse manifestations of APS and SLE.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder associated with aPL antibodies, leading to various neurological complications.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can also present with neurological issues, and its association with APS is well-documented.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male presented with involuntary movements (chorea), slurred speech, and vision loss in his right eye.
- Clinical investigations confirmed the diagnoses of both SLE and APS.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited concomitant chorea and retinal vessel occlusion, a rare combination of neurological and ocular manifestations.
- Treatment involved anticoagulants and immunosuppressants, including prednisolone, leading to clinical improvement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing the diverse and sometimes overlapping neurological manifestations of SLE and APS.
- The co-occurrence of retinal vessel occlusion and chorea in this patient provides valuable insight into the complex pathophysiology of these conditions.
- Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are crucial for managing patients with combined SLE and APS to prevent severe complications.
Abstract:
Various neurological complications occur in primary or secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) consisting of cerebrovascular attacks, ocular events, dementia, seizure, chorea, and transverse myelopathy that are all related to the titer of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). We report a patient with chorea and retinal vessel occlusion as manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and APS. A 27-year-old man presented with progressive visual field defect and decreases visual acuity of right eye (OD) as well as involuntary movements in both hands and slurred speech. Investigations led to the diagnosis of SLE and APS. Anticoagulant and immunosuppressant was started for him. As his condition improved, the prednisolone was gradually tapered. This is the first case report of concomitant retinal vessel occlusion and chorea in SLE and APS.
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