Cognitive Dysfunction, Diffusion Tensor Imaging and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in Antiphospholipid Antibody (aPL)-negative Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) versus aPL-positive non-SLE Patients

Doruk Erkan, MD

Co-Investigators

Elizabeth Kozora, PhD
Aziz Ulug, Ph.D.
Robert Zimmerman, MD
Lening Zhang, MD, PhD
Michael D. Lockshin, MD

Summary

This study will enroll 40 lupus or antiphospholipid antibody positive patients for the administration of tests to examine general mental function and pictures of the brain (MRI). The purpose of the study is to measure mental abilities such as ability to concentrate and to remember things, and to examine any potential abnormalities in brain MRI pictures.
 

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria:
Selected Inclusion Criteria:
• Ages of 18 and 50
• Diagnosis of lupus
• Positive antiphospholipid antibody tests (i.e., lupus anticoagulant test, anticardiolipin antibody test, and/or anti-ß2-glycoprotein-I antibody test)

Selected Exclusion Criteria:
• Non-English speaking patients,
• Pregnancy,
• History of other systemic autoimmune disorder (such as rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma),
• History of stroke
• History of other psychiatric or neurological disorder (such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, prior traumatic brain injury or brain tumor),
• Substance abuse, active illegal drug use or use,
• Prior neuropsychological testing within the past year, or
• Metal implants that interfere with safety for MIR procedures. 

Subjects will be paid $100.00 at the completion of the study

Contact Information

Vidhi Tyagi
Vidhit@hss.edu
212.774.2808

Joann Vega
Vegaj@hss.edu
212.774.2795