Abstract:

Objective To investigate the risk factors of epileptic seizures in patients with neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). Methods The clinical characteristics of 86 patients with NPSLE were retrospectively analysed. Patients were divided into epileptic seizure group (n=37) and nonepileptic seizure group (n=49). Univariate analysis and multivariate Logistic regression analysis were performed to compare the demographic characteristics and clinical indications between two groups. Results Univariate analysis revealed that there were significant differences between two groups in age, age of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) onset, history of immunosuppressant use, history of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine use and anticardiolipin antibodies (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that age of SLE onset and history of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine use were independent influencing factors for epileptic seizures of NPSLE （OR=0.361，P=0.047；OR=0.332，P=0.024）. Conclusion SLE onset before adulthood is an independent predictor of epileptic seizures, and history of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine use is an independent protective factor.

Key words: neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus, epileptic seizure, risk factors