Myelopathy is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Only 34 cases have been fully described in the literature. 5 other cases have been listed among large surveys of SLE patients. It is particularly unusual to find evidence of spinal cord involvement as the presenting feature of the disease. 2 cases are described in which SLE presented as a myelopathy and both made a satisfactory recovery with steroid treatment. The literature concerning SLE-myelopathy is reviewed.