Case reports of transient loss of vision and systemic lupus erythematosus.
BACKGROUND
Neuropsychiatric manifestations can occur in up to two-thirds of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The presentations as well as the underlying immunopathogenic mechanisms can be heterogeneous and therefore have an enormous impact on therapeutic options.


METHODS
We describe 2 patients who presented similarly with acute onset binocular reversible visual loss. The first patient had anti-phospholipid syndrome and optic neuritis, while the second patient suffered from posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome.


METHODS
Patient one was treated with anti-coagulation and immunosuppression while the second patient required the withdrawal of immunosuppression and supportive therapy.


RESULTS
Both patients responded favourably and had complete visual recovery.


CONCLUSIONS
Different management strategies have to be employed for similar presentations having different aetiologies, underscoring the need for constant clinical vigilance.
Lateef
Aisha
A
Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore. aisha@nuh.com.sg
Lim
Anita Y N
AY
D000328:Adult; D016736:Antiphospholipid Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology*; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D004830:Epilepsy, Tonic-Clonic / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D020945:Lupus Vasculitis, Central Nervous System / Q000175:diagnosis; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D009902:Optic Neuritis / Q000209:etiology*; D012480:Salmonella Infections / Q000150:complications; D012477:Salmonella enteritidis; D013997:Time Factors; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology