Systemic lupus erythematosus activity and depression

Excerpt

Depression is common in patients with chronic diseases. This also happens in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) [1]. Although the causal elements are not fully known, it is assumed that some contributing factors are the physical disability generated by joint pains and fatigue, concerns about disease prognosis and a negative body image caused by skin lesions and glucocorticoid use [2]. However, it is possible that lupus activity on central nervous system also could be associated with mood disorders [3]. Even though only seizures and psychosis are part of the classification criteria of the American College of Rheumatology for the diagnosis of this disease [4], major depression is considered one of the neuropsychiatric manifestations of SLE [3]. Milder forms are usually interpreted as associated disorders [3]. Depression in SLE is not formally assessed in daily practice and is frequently underdiagnosed. …