Role of autoantibody tests in the diagnostic evaluation of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus.

Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (NPSLE) can be defined as a significant and unequivocal change in the baseline neurologic and psychiatric function identified by history and physical examination. NPSLE can involve the central nervous system and/or the peripheral autonomic nervous system. This article reviews the clinical manifestations, pathology, and immunopathogenesis of NPSLE. The use and importance of diagnostic procedures including autoantibody assays in the evaluation of NPSLE are discussed.