Case Study: Cerebral Toxoplasmosis in a Newly Diagnosed Lupus Patient

Conclusion

It can be challenging to diagnose central nervous system infections in SLE patients presenting with non-specific neurological manifestations. Opportunistic infections, such as cerebral toxoplasmosis, should be kept in mind in addition to the more obvious diagnosis of lupus cerebritis and ischemic/embolic stroke when dealing with SLE patients presenting with altered mental status. When suspected, imaging, such as CT and MRI of the brain, and serological testing should be pursued—particularly if symptoms don’t improve with immunosuppressive therapy.

Komal Ejaz, MD, is a resident in internal medicine at the Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, Pa.

Muhammad Ali Raza, MD, is a resident in internal medicine at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center/Temple University, Johnstown, Pa.

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