Haemorrhage Secondary to Cerebral Aneurysm in a Senegalese Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Hemorrhage by ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a rare and severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We reported a case of this complication. Observation: A 24-year-old woman black Senegalese patient was followed in our department since for a systemic lupus with cutaneous and articular involvement and class III and V Lupus nephritis. She was readmitted for acute headache and early postprandial vomiting. The examination showed a meningeal syndrome, a subacute lupus eruption in the trunk, panniculitis and fever. The cerebral computer tomography showed spontaneous haemorrhage from saccular aneurysm. She was managed by immediate aneurysm clipping and medical treatment including bolus of methylprednisolone and immunosuppressive therapy was maintained. The outcome was favourable, but there was neurological damage such as brachial weakness. Conclusion: Hemorrhage by ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a rare and severe complication of SLE. The risk of damage is also significant. Immediate neurosurgical management and aggressive medical treatment may improve the prognosis.