Broadening the spectrum of the neurological complications in systemic lupus erythematosus: A patient with meningoradiculitis

Abstract

Background

Neurological complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are wide and may rarely involve the peripheral nervous system. However, no case of meningoradiculitis has been well-detailed.

Methods

We report a patient with lupus-associated meningoradiculitis.

Results

A 57-year-old woman had SLE without neurological involvement, treated with hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, and prednisone for 10 years. Six months after the drug discontinuation for SLE, she acutely developed gait instability, paresthesia, and neuropathic pain of the four limbs. The neurological examination and nerve conduction studies were consistent with radiculopathies. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed lymphocytic meningitis. The spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed thickening and an enhancement of the lumbosacral roots consistent with meningoradiculitis. The extensive investigations did not argue for a differential diagnosis of SLE. The patient dramatically improved upon corticosteroids. At the last follow-up, the patient still reported mild paresthesia but the clinical examination, the CSF, and the spinal MRI were normal.

Conclusion

This well-detailed case of meningoradiculitis broadens the spectrum of neurological complications in SLE. Early recognition of such complications might lead to efficient immunotherapy.