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Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome in paediatric patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: implications
Chloé Durrleman1, Olivier Naggara2,3,4, David Grevent3
1Paediatric Neurology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France.
Insights
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) was identified in three pediatric patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early recognition and multidisciplinary analysis are crucial for managing this rare condition in children.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to cause microvascular brain injury.
- Cerebral large artery involvement in pediatric SLE remains under investigation.
Observation:
- Three female patients (ages 9-14) with SLE experienced intense headaches and neurological symptoms after immunosuppressive treatment intensification for lupus nephritis.
- Magnetic resonance angiography revealed multiple stenoses in the circle of Willis, with one patient developing cerebral infarction.
Findings:
- Clinical and radiological features suggested reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) as the most likely diagnosis in all three patients.
- Angiography normalized within weeks, indicating the reversible nature of the vasoconstriction.
- RCVS is a rare condition in children, and this study highlights its occurrence in pediatric SLE.
Implications:
- Multidisciplinary assessment of clinical and angiographic findings is recommended for diagnosing RCVS in pediatric SLE patients.
- Timely recognition of RCVS in this population can guide appropriate treatment adjustments.
- This study underscores the importance of thorough imaging analysis for diagnosing RCVS in pediatric patients.
Abstract:
Microvascular brain injury is well recognized in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but cerebral large artery involvement is being debated. Three females with SLE, aged 9 to 14 years, had immunosuppressive treatment intensification because of lupus nephritis. Within the following days or weeks, they presented with intense cephalalgia - isolated or associated with neurological symptoms - and no or mild hypertension. Magnetic resonance angiography showed multiple stenoses within the circle of Willis. One patient had subsequent small subcortical cerebral infarction. Two patients were treated for neuropsychiatric SLE; one patient was treated for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Angiography normalized within a few weeks in all three patients. Retrospectively, clinical and radiological features suggest that RCVS was the most likely diagnosis in all patients. Multidisciplinary analysis of clinical and angiographic features is recommended, as RCVS is rare in children and its recognition may help to adjust treatment. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Reversible vasoconstriction syndrome was observed in paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus. Thorough imaging analysis was necessary to address this diagnosis in paediatric patients.
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