Performance of eye sign combined with increased interleukin‐6 in cerebrospinal fluid in patients with neuropsychiatric lupus erythematosus

Abstract Objectives To ascertain whether microvascular alterations of eye sign combined with intrathecal concentrations of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) can predict the development of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). Methods Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples of IL‐6 were collected and measured at the same time for patients with SLE who were consecutively enrolled. Patients with a diagnosis of NPSLE were identified. Eye sign examinations according to our criteria were performed and scored for all SLE patients. Demographic and clinical parameters were compared between groups to identify potential predictors for NPSLE using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The performance of potential predictors from eye sign along with IL‐6 in the CSF was assessed. Results A total of 120 patients with SLE were enrolled; 30 with NPSLE and 90 with non‐NPSLE. No significant positive correlation was observed between CSF level and serum level of IL‐6. CSF IL‐6 was significant higher in the NPSLE group than the non‐NPSLE ( P < 0.001) group. Multivariable logistic analysis revealed that total score, ramified loops, and microangioma of eye sign were predictors for NPSLE after adjusting for SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and antiphospholipid antibody (APL). Total score, ramified loops, microangioma of eye sign, and SLEDAI remain significant predictors for NPSLE after adjusting for CSF IL‐6. Using receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, the cut‐off point of potential predictors was applied in multivariable logistic analysis; APL, total score, ramified loops, and microangioma of eye sign remain significant predictors for NPSLE after adjusting for CSF IL‐6. Conclusion Specific microvascular alterations of eye sign are predictors for the development of NPSLE in addition to increased IL‐6 in the CSF.