Acquired brain injury secondary to systemic sclerosis: A case report

Abstract

Study design: Case report.

Background: Systemic sclerosis is a rare and chronic autoimmune disease of the body's connective tissue that historically has not been associated with primary involvement of the central nervous system.

Objective: To describe the neuropsychological sequelae of systemic sclerosis in a 56-year-old male.

Results: Neurocognitive deficits were demonstrated by the patient on select components of memory and language as well as across measures of executive functioning. Significant depression and reduced self-concept were also identified.

Discussion: Neuropsychological dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis has largely been ignored in the clinical setting. Identification of neurocognitive impairment and emotional stress can facilitate interventions that consequently may increase adherence with medical treatment and increase quality-of-life.

• Cognition
• executive functioning
• neuropsychological