Suicide attempts in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

• DOI: 10.1136/ard.62.1.58
• Publication Date: 2002-12-13T00:42:54Z
• Authors: F B Karassa; M Magliano; D A Isenberg
• Keywords: Depression

Suicide and suicide attempts, although well recognised in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), have been commented on relatively little.To obtain a better understanding of the reasons for suicidal behaviour SLE.The records 300 SLE were reviewed to identify completed or attempted suicides.Five made seven attempts at over 20 year follow up period; one them was fatal. All those attempting had history neuropsychiatric (NPSLE) presenting depression they soon after onset NPSLE (median time 12.5 months). Two appreciable disease activity attempt. Lymphopenia present five attempts. Anti-SSA/Ro antibodies detected three patients, none whom anti-SSB/La. apart from responded treatment depression; remaining female patient two subsequent fatal outcome despite intensive treatment.Greater awareness risk psychiatric manifestations may help reduce incidence this potentially phenomenon.