Association between corticosteroid dosage and symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Background and objectives. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition that frequently involves neuropsychiatric manifestations, including depression and anxiety. This study aimed to examine the association between corticosteroid dosage and symptoms of depression and anxiety in SLE patients. Materials and methods. Depression and anxiety levels were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Demographic and clinical characteristics of SLE patients with and without depression or anxiety were compared. Cross-sectional and regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between corticosteroid dosage and psychological symptoms. Results. Among 73 SLE patients (85% women; mean age 27.5 ± 8.9 years), 61.6% had anxiety and 54.8% had depression. Demographic factors were not significantly associated, but high-dose corticosteroid therapy showed a strong correlation with both depression and anxiety. Conclusions. Patients with SLE often present with depression and anxiety symptoms. High-dose corticosteroid therapy is an independent predictor of these psychological symptoms. These findings underscore the need for cautious corticosteroid use and emphasize the importance of a biopsychosocial approach in SLE management.