Lupus and the Nervous System: A Neuroimmunoloigcal Update on Pathogenesis and Management of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Focus on Neuropsychiatric SLE

An autoimmune condition is characterized by a misdirected immunological system that interacts with host antigens. Excess activation of T- and B-lymphocytes, autoantibody generation, immune complex deposition, and multi-organ injury are found in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an early autoimmune condition with a substantial hereditary element. A number of environmental factors and lifestyle changes also play a role in the development of SLE. The imbalanced immunity could take part in the dysfunction and injury of different biological organs, including the central and peripheral nervous systems. Neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) can present with focal and diffuse involvements. Clinical manifestations of NPSLE vary from mild cognitive deficits to changed mental status, psychosis, and seizure disorders. Headaches, mood, and cognitive problems are the most common neuropsychiatric presentations associated with SLE. NPSLE could be found in 40% of all people who have SLE. The diagnostic inference of NPSLE can be made solely following these secondary causes have been ruled out. The present chapter provides an updated discussion of the clinical presentation, molecular processes, diagnosis, management, and therapy of SLE with emphasizing on NPSLE.