Noninfectious Meningitis Caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Series of 4 Patients

J Comput Assist Tomogr. 2016 May-Jun;40(3):424-7. doi: 10.1097/RCT.0000000000000386.

Abstract

We report magnetic resonance imaging findings of 4 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who presented with noninfectious meningitis by lupus itself. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated diffuse or localized high-signal intensity in subarachnoid spaces on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) or postcontrast fluid-attenuated inversion recovery. Cerebrospinal fluid study revealed no abnormalities other than increased level of proteins. Our report is the first description of magnetic resonance findings in context of leptomeningeal involvement in non-infectious meningitis of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / diagnostic imaging*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Meningitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Meningitis / etiology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Young Adult