Study Discovers Antibodies Leading to Development of Neuropsychiatric Lupus
Investigators have identified antibodies associated with neuropsychiatric (nervous system-related) complications in people with neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). A group of 69 people with lupus were examined. They found the presence of brain cytoplasmic ribonucleic acid (BC RNA) antibodies, which disrupt normal brain function and concluded that these antibodies cause neurocognitive symptoms in those with the disease.
NPSLE symptoms can include psychosis, mood disorders, seizures, headaches and cognitive impairment. The findings open the door for development of new treatments that target the disease process by addressing these antibodies. Moving forward, researchers can focus on identifying treatments which address the cause of NPSLE, instead of just treating the symptoms.
The Lupus Foundation of America has been at the forefront and continues to lead the efforts to better understand the causes and risk factors associated with neuropsychiatric lupus. Learn about how lupus affects the nervous system and brain.