Communicating hydrocephalus in systemic lupus erythematosus.

BACKGROUND

Central nervous system involvement is common in systemic lupus erythematosus but hydrocephalus, especially in children, is rare.

CASE CHARACTERISTICS: 6-year-old girl with systemic lupus erythematosus with nephritis, on treatment for four months prior to the presentation with features of raised intracranial pressure.

OBSERVATION: Computed tomography revealed communicating hydrocephalus without any evidence of granulomatous lesion, infarction or thrombosis, with no features of lupus flare. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting provided symptomatic relief after failed medical management.

MESSAGE: Hydrocephalus may be seen in systemic lupus erythematosus without tuberculosis or major vessel vasculitis.