Systemic lupus erythematosus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Abstract EN

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex connective tissue disorder which is often difficult to diagnose because of its varied presentations.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) has been reported as an unusual initial manifestation of SLE.

We present one such case in a 7-year-old female, along with a review of six previously reported cases.

In addition to symptoms and signs of IIH, these patients display signs and symptoms commonly seen in SLE.

Such findings at presentation should guide the physician to consider SLE in a patient with IIH.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), also known as pseudotumor cerebri, is a rare condition seen most often m young obese females.

It is characterized by increased intracranial pressure, normal cerebral spinal fluid, normal neuro-imaging and an absence of focal neurologic deficits.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a connective tissue disorder which affects many organ systems and is often difficult to diagnose because of its varied presentations.

IIH has been reported rarely to occur in association with SLE.

The nature of the relationship between SLE and IIH has not been identified.

We describe a 7-year-old female who presents with IIH at the time of diagnosis of SLE.

We have also examined other previously reported cases in order to determine common aspects of their presentations and the presentation of our patient.

These common factors may aid clinicians in early diagnosis of SLE patients who present with IIH as the primary manifestation of disease.