Transient visual symptoms in systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To review the potential pathogenic mechanisms of transient visual symptoms (TVS) in the course of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), to discuss the most common clinical features associated with the occurrence of TVS, and to explore possible treatment options for these patients.


METHODS
The literature regarding the clinical and laboratory characteristics of SLE and APS patients experiencing TVS is reviewed from 1979 onward. A brief review of the wide spectrum of ophthalmologic features occurring in SLE and APS is also provided.


RESULTS
Data emerging from the review process point to thromboembolism as the most probable cause of TVS in SLE and APS. Thromboembolisms are likely induced by cardiac valve abnormalities and should be treated with anticoagulant drugs.


CONCLUSIONS
While progress has been made in understanding the association of TVS with SLE and APS, further investigation is needed to clarify this interesting relationship.
Lupus Eye Research Unit, Institute of Ophthalmology, 'La Sapienza' University, Rome, Italy. lupusunit@tin.it
D
D
Giorgi
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V
David
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A
Afeltra
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CB
Gabrieli
D020757:Amaurosis Fugax / Q000209:etiology*; D016736:Antiphospholipid Syndrome / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications*; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000209:etiology*