Work

Sensory ganglionopathy and pituitary lesion in systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report and literature review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) rarely manifests as sensory ganglionopathy or pituitary lesions, posing diagnostic challenges due to their atypical presentations and potential for irreversible damage. Case presentation. A 26-year-old male presented with five months of gait instability, numbness, and hand clumsiness, along with dry eyes and loose stools. Examination revealed sensory ataxia, absent reflexes, and positive anti-dsDNA antibodies, confirming SLE. Nerve conduction studies showed absent sensory nerve action potentials, consistent with sensory ganglionopathy. MRI identified a non-enhancing pituitary lesion suggestive of autoimmune hypophysitis, with associated hyperprolactinemia and hypogonadism. Treatment with methylprednisolone, oral steroids, and cabergoline stabilized the patient’s symptoms without further progression. Conclusion. Early recognition of sensory ganglionopathy and pituitary involvement in SLE is critical to prevent irreversible neuronal and endocrine damage through timely immunosuppression.

Source: Romanian Journal of Rheumatology

DOI: 10.37897/rjr.2025.2.2

Authors: Lankapothu Prem Balaji Reddy, Jagadeeshwar Kakumani, B. Srinidhi, M. Sathish Kumar

Institution: Saveetha University

Language: English

Topic: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Research

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $216