Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting as Optic Neuropathy: A Case Report

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease with a wide variety of clinical presentations as a result of its effect on several organ systems. Optic nerve involvement in SLE is very uncommon, but optic neuritis can be the initial manifestation of SLE. A previously healthy 47-year-old woman developed blurring of vision in the left eye for the last three weeks and associated periorbital pain that worsened with eye movement. On a review of systems, she reported a photosensitivity rash, painless oral ulcers, and generalized arthralgia. On examination, she had relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) in the left eye. A visual field analysis revealed bilateral arcuate defects. Positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-beta2-glycoprotein I, and low complement levels of C4 were found consistent with the diagnosis of SLE. We present a case of optic neuropathy as the initial manifestation of SLE in a 47-year-old lady and an associated review of the literature.