Functional impairments in white matter syndrome of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus are similar to those observed in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Objective: In order to compare white matter syndrome of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) and multiple sclerosis (MS), an assessment on demographic, medical history, and clinical data was proposed.

Methods: Sixty-four patients with NPSLE and 178 with MS answered a questionnaire and were evaluated regarding functional system, expanded disability status scale (EDSS), Beck depression inventory (BDI), and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI).

Results: The prevalence of autoimmune diseases and altered consciousness was similar in both groups, however it was higher than in the general population.