NEUROPSYCHIATRIC LUPUS-ERYTHEMATOSUS AND THE ELDERLY

Recent research suggests systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is more common in the elderly than previously thought. Neuropsychiatric disorder occurs in the majority of patients at some time during the course of the illness. Frequently neuropsychiatric features occur early, and may precede other typical features of multisystem disease by some years. An organic brain syndrome is the most frequently encountered neuropsychiatric manifestation of SLE. It is important that cases presenting to elderly services are recognized, as organic brain disorders resulting from SLE are potentially treatable.