Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Pregnancy

Key points

• Maternal autoantibodies can cross the placenta, leading to a condition termed neonatal lupus erythematosus
• Neonatal complications include a characteristic rash and congenital heart block
• Strongly associated with anti-Ro (SSA) antibodies, and to a lesser extent anti-La (SSB)
• Women with anti-Ro/anti-La antibodies planning pregnancy should be counselled on the risk of congenital heart block and may need fetal cardiac monitoring