Observations on the Role of the Mechanism of Depression in Some Patients with Disseminated Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

A psychiatric study of 14 patients showed that exacerbations in the course of disseminated lupus erythematosis were provoked by the threat of loss of significant personal relationships. The solution to a depressive conflict in the mother-child relationship, offered by the development of vigorous independence and hyperactivity, was threatened by the physical restriction produced by the disseminated lupus. The sequence of failing integrative efforts to avoid depression is demonstrated and the appearance of joint pains and other symptoms of lupus correlated with the breakdown in the pattern of compulsive activity.