Papilledema and Asymptomatic Intracranial Hypertension in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The unique occurrence of benign intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri) in confirmed lupus erythematosus was seen in a 21-year-old woman. There was a moderate papilledema of both optic discs with dilated, tortuous, retinal veins. Lumbar puncture demonstrated a rise in intracranial pressure though there were no related neurologic findings. Fluorescein angiography was done at the time of admission and also two and seven weeks later, showing gradual resolution of the papilledema.