PSYCHIATRIC MANIFESTATIONS IN PEDIATRIC SLE PATIENTS AT SIRIRAJ HOSPITAL BANGKOK, THAILAND

Although psychiatric manifestations in children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are common, published research on this topic is scarce. The aim of this study was to describe psychiatric manifestations in pediatric SLE patients including neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) and associated factors. The retrospective chart review was performed among 34 pediatric SLE patients who received psychiatric consultation at Siriraj Hospital during the 2003 to 2012 study period. The results showed common psychiatric symptoms including mood change, anxiety, behavioral change, and cognitive dysfunction, Sixteen children had NPSLE and 18 patients had psychiatric symptoms not related to NPSLE. All children without NPSLE recovered from their psychiatric symptoms, whereas two children with NPSLE died. Factors found to be significantly associated with the diagnosis of NPSLE included presenting symptoms with more than one organ involvement, nervous system involvement, and cognitive dysfunction. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of careful assessment and appropriate treatment of psychiatric manifestations, particularly NPSLE that indicates a less favorable prognosis and requires treatment With anti-inflammatory medications.