Can Lupus Cause Mental Illness?
Diagnostic tests and treatments
Imaging using MRI or CAT scan, biochemical analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, and psychological tests can help to understand the involvement of brain in lupus. At present diagnosis of neuropsychiatric issues is challenging due to a lack of any specific test, and also because of a limited understanding of disease pathology.
Treatment with steroids and immunosuppressive drugs remain the first line treatment. Symptomatic treatment of seizures, painful syndromes, and depression may also help. Many new drugs based on monoclonal antibodies targeting specific immune complexes are already showing promise and could soon become the first line treatment.
