Outcome of planned pregnancies in systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective study on 62 pregnancies

Obstetric and Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Lupus: Retrospective Study in a Portuguese Tertiary Center

OBJECTIVE

 Pregnancy in women with lupus poses a higher risk of complications compared with the general population. The present study aimed to determine and describe the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of pregnant women with lupus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 We conducted an observational retrospective study of pregnant women with the diagnosis of lupus, who were selected and followed at the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic of our institution between January 2013 and July 2018. We analyzed 59 pregnancies and 52 newborns, and collected data regarding sociodemographic features, the preconception period, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and the newborn. A descriptive analysis of the variables was performed.

RESULTS

 In 58% of the cases, the pregnancy was uneventful. We registered flares in 25% of the cases, preeclampsia in 3%, fetal growth restriction in 12%, gestational loss in 10%, preterm labor in 10%, postpartum complications in 20%, and small for gestational age newborns in 17% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

 Most pregnancies in women with lupus have favorable obstetric and neonatal outcomes. Prenatal counseling, adequate multidisciplinary surveillance, and optimized treatment of the disease are fundamental pillars for these good results.

Long-term impact of pregnancy on renal function among Egyptian women with lupus nephritis: A case control study

Few studies tackled the long-term effect of pregnancy on lupus nephritis (LNs); thus, the study aimed to explore the long-term impact of pregnancy on renal outcomes in Egyptian patients with LN. Group I patients included females who had their first pregnancy after LN onset with ≥5 years elapsing after delivery; group II patients included females who had never got pregnant for ≥7 years after LN onset. Data were retrospectively collected at baseline (T₀) and the last visit (T_last). The study included 43 patients in group I and 39 patients in group II. The comparisons between the two groups regarding the characteristics at T_last showed no significant difference regarding the serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), renal component of SLICC/ACR Damage Index (SDI) as well as the rate of renal flares, new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD), progressed CKD and end-stage renal disease. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that systemic hypertension and renal flares were predictors of new-onset/progressed CKD (p = 0.019, OR [95% CI] = 4 [1.3-13]; and 0.022, 13.8 [1.5-128.8], respectively) while pregnancy was not (p = 0.363). Paired comparisons between T₀ and T_last characteristics within each group revealed significant increment of serum creatinine, renal SDI and CKD prevalence; as well as decrement of eGFR in group I (p = 0.004, <0.001, 0.001 and <0.001, respectively) and group II (p = 0.006, <0.001, 0.004 and 0.002, respectively). In conclusion, pregnancy, per se, does not affect the long-term renal outcome in LN patients; however, it is rather dependent on the existence of baseline renal damage and the development of renal flares.

Improved pregnancy outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus: A retrospective study of pregnancies from a single centre in Denmark from 2010-2020 compared with the period 1990-2010

OBJECTIVES

Over the past decades new international guidelines recommend that pregnant Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are monitored closely in a multi-professional team throughout pregnancy. The importance of low disease activity before pregnancy and continued treatment during pregnancy has been established. However, there is still a high risk of adverse pregnancy outcome (APO).The APO in a Danish SLE cohort was evaluated and compared with the results in a previous study cohort from the same centre and referral area.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used the local patient registry to identify pregnancies in SLE patients followed at the Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, from January 2010 to October 2020. In total, 66 pregnancies were registered in 41 women. Data were compared with a previous retrospective study (1990-2010) from the same hospital.

RESULTS

Adverse pregnancy outcome occurred in 65% of pregnancies. Forty-seven pregnancies resulted in a live birth, while 15 ended in miscarriages. Compared to the 1990-2010 cohort, a numerical reduction in preterm deliveries (7.58% vs. 17.9%) and emergent caesarean (6.1% vs. 15.5%) was observed, although not reaching statistical significance (p = .07 in both cases). Further, a higher average birth weight (3045 g vs. 2870 g) as well as a higher number of pregnancies and live births per year were observed. Gestational hypertension was significantly reduced from 23.8% to 13.6% (p = .05). Significantly more patients were treated with prednisolone (66.7% vs 35.7%, p = .0002), hydroxychloroquine (6% vs. 73.4%, p < .0001) and acetylsalicylic acid (39.3% vs. 73.1%, p = .0001) in 2010-2020 compared to the 1990-2010.

CONCLUSION

We observed significant improvements in the frequency of some APOs in the recent 2010-2020 cohort compared with the previous cohort followed from 1990 to 2010. However, even though a specialized multi-professional team closely follows SLE patients through their pregnancies, pregnancy in SLE still carries a high risk of APO.

Rheumatology-led pregnancy clinic: patient-centred approach

Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs), which include all types of inflammatory arthritis as well as systemic Lupus, are known to have a detrimental effect on both fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Consequently, reproductive health care is considered a principle constituent of comprehensive care for all patients with rheumatic ailments seen in the standard practice. Whilst pregnancy-associated complications have been reported in lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren's syndrome, in some conditions such as lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, inflammatory myopathies, and vasculitis, the pregnancy may accelerate the disease progression. Furthermore, the activity of some diseases such as lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome may be augmented by some contraceptive methods. Therapeutically, some patients are prescribed medications, such as methotrexate and mycophenolate which have potentially teratogenic effect. Therefore, to be able to help those patients, family planning should be patient-centred with decision-making tailored to the individual's disease status. For those healthcare professionals interested in reproductive health care for their patients living with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, this review summarizes the available information in the literature and offers practical suggestions of patient-centred care in a dedicated rheumatology-led pregnancy clinic. Key Points • Autoimmune disorders, particularly systemic inflammatory rheumatic diseases, affect many women, often during childbearing age. • Pregnancies in this cohort of patients with rheumatic diseases is considered to be of high risk, because of the potential for complications during periods of active disease and the possible impact of medications used on both the pregnancy outcomes as well as the baby. • There are high chances of successful and safe pregnancies particularly if pre-pregnancy planning and screening for maternal and fetal risks are undertaken, and pregnancy takes place while the disease is well controlled. Encouraging the patients, who are in their childbearing period, to initiate discussions about family planning and pregnancy, with their treating rheumatologists, would be an ideal approach to close this gap of information exchange. • Targeted patients' education is expected to improve the information quality and promote more collaborative decision-making with regard to motherhood and healthcare choices.

Rheumatology-led pregnancy clinic: enhancing the care of women with rheumatic diseases during pregnancy

The autoimmune rheumatic diseases have a clear predilection for women. Consequently, issues regarding family planning and pregnancy are a vital component of the management of these patients. Not only does pregnancy by itself causes physiologic/immunologic changes that impact disease activity but also women living with inflammatory arthritic conditions face the additional challenges of reduced fecundity and worsened pregnancy outcomes. Many women struggle to find adequate information to guide them on pregnancy planning, lactation and early parenting in relation to their chronic condition. This article discusses the gaps in the care provided to women living with inflammatory arthritis in standard practice and how a rheumatology nurse-led pregnancy clinic would fill such gap, consequently enhance the care provided and ensure appropriate education is provided to these individuals who represent the majority of the patients attending the rheumatology outpatient clinics. Such specialist care is expected to cover the whole journey as it is expected to provide high-quality care before, during and after pregnancy.

Contraception and preconception counseling in women with autoimmune disease

Appropriate contraception and preconception counseling are critical for women of reproductive age with systemic autoimmune diseases (AIDs) because clinical diagnosis, rheumatology medications, and disease activity may impact the safety or efficacy of certain contraceptives as well as the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The presence of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies (anticardiolipin, anti-β2 glycoprotein I, and lupus anticoagulant) is the most important determinant of contraception choice, as women with these antibodies should not receive estrogen-containing contraceptives because of the increased risk of thrombosis. Prepregnancy counseling generally includes the assessment of preexisting disease-related organ damage, current disease activity, aPL antibodies, anti-Ro/SS-A and anti-La/SS-B antibodies, and medication safety in pregnancy. Quiescent AID for six months on pregnancy-compatible medications optimizes maternal and fetal/neonatal outcomes for most patients.

Contraception Use Among Reproductive-Age Women With Rheumatic Diseases

OBJECTIVE

To determine contraception use among a cohort of reproductive-age women (ages 18-50 years) with rheumatic diseases.

METHODS

We conducted a study of administrative data from a single, large medical center between the years 2013 and 2014. Women who had 1 of 21 possible rheumatic disease diagnoses and had at least 2 outpatient rheumatology visits were included in this analysis. We used logistic regression analyses to evaluate adjusted associations between the use of prescription contraception, use of potentially fetotoxic medications, and visits with rheumatologists, primary care providers, and gynecologists.

RESULTS

Of 2,455 women in this sample, 32.1% received any prescription contraception, and 7.9% of women used highly effective prescription methods (intrauterine devices, implants, and surgical sterilization). More than 70% of women took ≥1 type of fetotoxic medication during the 2-year study timeframe. Fetotoxic medication use was not associated with overall use of prescription contraception, but was associated with the use of highly effective contraceptive methods (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.26 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.44-3.54]). Women who saw gynecologists or primary care providers were more likely to use prescription contraception overall (adjusted OR 3.35 [95% CI 2.77-4.05] and 1.43 [95% CI 1.18-1.73], respectively). Women who saw gynecologists were more likely to use highly versus moderately effective contraceptive methods (adjusted OR 2.35 [95% CI 1.41-3.94]). Rheumatology visits were not associated with use of prescription contraception in any models.

CONCLUSION

This is the largest study to date to describe contraceptive use among reproductive-age women with rheumatic diseases, and the findings reveal low use of prescription contraception. Urgent efforts are needed to improve contraceptive care and access for some women with rheumatic diseases.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated by HELLP Syndrome

We describe a pregnant woman with systemic lupus erythematosus, complicated by severe pre-eclampsia (the HELLP syndrome) and adult respiratory distress syndrome, who died in the intensive care unit.

A 33-year-old multigravid woman was referred to our university hospital at 17 weeks’ gestation because of an exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus with elevated liver enzymes and thrombocytopenia. At the time of admission, on physical examination she had revealed a butterfly rash over the cheeks, purpura, acute synovitis and oedema of the legs. Her blood pressure was 180/100 mmHg. The initial laboratory tests and immunological evaluation confirmed active systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by severe pre-eclampsia. One week after admission, she became suddenly confused and had a convulsion with Glascow Coma Score 10 (3+3+4). Therapeutic abortion was induced in the Obstetric Department. She was transferred to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of respiratory failure, probably due to acute respiratory distress syndrome, and was intubated and ventilated. Dialysis was instituted on two consecutive days from the eighth day. In total she received over 20 units of red blood cells and large quantities of fresh frozen plasma and platelets. On the 24th day her Glascow Coma Score was 2 (1+1+E) and severe hypotension developed. She died from worsening acute respiratory distress syndrome on the 25th day.

Women with systemic lupus erythematosus should be advised to become pregnant when the disease is inactive and should be observed at an appropriate centre using a multidisciplinary approach. Therapeutic abortion is an acceptable option if active nephropathy and severe pre-eclampsia are present in early pregnancy.

Antiphospholipid syndrome: An update on risk factors for pregnancy outcome

BACKGROUND

The optimal treatment of women with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is still debated. About 20-30% of women with APS remain unable to give birth to healthy neonates despite conventional treatment, consisting of prophylactic-dose heparin and low-dose aspirin. These cases are defined "refractory obstetric APS". The early identification of risk factors associated with poor pregnancy outcome could be the optimal strategy to establish criteria for additional therapies, such as hydroxychloroquine, steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange.

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to review current literature about risk factors for poor pregnancy outcome.

SEARCH METHODS

The PubMed database was used to search for peer-reviewed original and review articles concerning risk factors for pregnancy outcome in APS from 1st January 1990 to 15th January 2018.

OUTCOMES

History of pregnancy morbidity and/or thrombosis, the association with SLE and/or other autoimmune diseases are well known history-based predictive factors for obstetrical complications, such as miscarriage, maternal venous thromboembolism, intrauterine foetal demise, preeclampsia, and neonatal death. Moreover, laboratory findings associated with poor pregnancy outcome are:triple antiphospholipid antibodies aPL positivity, double aPL positivity, single aPL positivity, false-positive IgM for CMV, and hypocomplementemia. Triple positivity is confirmed as the most significant risk factor by a large body of evidence. Furthermore, the abnormal uterine arteries Doppler velocimetry results are confirmed to be strongly associated with poor pregnancy outcomes in APS. The good performance of the uterine arteries velocimetry, as a negative predictive factor, was reported by different studies. On the contrary, in case of abnormal uterine arteries results, the relevance of a careful surveillance is highlighted for the high risk of maternal-foetal complications. Nevertheless, this tool is a late indicator to suggest any additional treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

In order to prevent obstetrical complications and establish the optimal combination therapy, the knowledge at preconception or at the beginning of pregnancy of risk factors associated with poor pregnancy outcome could be a crucial step for management and treatment of APS. In addition, in the preconception assessment a regimen with low-dose aspirin, folic acid, and vitamin D supplementation should be offered, and a treatment strategy has to be established (conventional vs additional therapy). In fact, additional treatment has to be tailored for each patient.

Maternal and Perinatal Outcome in Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Retrospective Bicenter Cohort Study

Objective

To investigate disease activity around and during pregnancy and pregnancy outcome in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) considering antiphospholipid antibody status. Moreover, differences between first and consecutive pregnancies were examined.

Methods

Pregnancies > 16 weeks gestation of SLE patients receiving joint care from rheumatologists and gynecologists in two tertiary centers in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2015 were included. Disease activity, flare rate, and pregnancy outcomes and complications were assessed.

Results

Ninety-six women (84% Caucasian) with 144 pregnancies were included. The median SLE(P)DAI score was 2 before, during, and after pregnancy. Flare rates were 6.3%, 20.1%, and 15.3%, respectively. Severe hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, intrauterine fetal death, preterm birth, and small-for-gestational age infants occurred in 18.1%, 4.1%, 32.7%, and 14.8%, respectively. Complication rates were similar in the first and consecutive pregnancies. Half of the women did not experience any pregnancy complication whereas 42.7% developed a complication during all pregnancies. Mean number of pregnancies was 2.4 and live births 1.7.

Conclusion

In this SLE population with low disease activity, pregnancy complications were present irrespective of antiphospholipid antibody status. Furthermore, there were no differences in complication rates between the first and consecutive pregnancies as seen in healthy mothers. This information is useful for patient counseling.

Pregnancy outcomes and contraceptive use in patients with systemic lupus Erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and women without a chronic illness: a comparative study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the pregnancy outcomes and contraceptive practices in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and women with no chronic illness (WNCI) in a tertiary care referral center in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

METHODS

Patients with SLE satisfying American College of Rheumatology criteria for diagnosis and history of pregnancies were recruited from university lupus clinic, National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL). Age-matched women with history of pregnancy and RA were recruited from the rheumatology clinic, NHSL and WNCI from a surgical clinic.

RESULTS

In 71 patients with SLE, 79 pregnancies occurred in 38 patients. The number of total pregnancies in SLE, RA and WNCI (79, 80 and 85 respectively) were not significantly different (P > 0.05), but most occurred before diagnosis of SLE and RA. Pregnancies occurring after diagnosis were significantly higher in SLE compared to RA (P = 0.013, χ² = 6.169). Mean age at diagnosis was higher (P < 0.01) in RA (35 years) than in SLE (26 years). Percentage live births after diagnosis was significantly lower (P < 0.01) in SLE (9/20; 45%) compared to RA (6/8; 75%) and WNCI (77/85; 91%). Adverse fetal outcomes (fetal loss, pre-maturity, low birth weight) and assisted deliveries were significantly more (P < 0.001) in SLE than in WNCI. Unplanned pregnancies were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in SLE (80%) compared to RA (25%) and in WNCI (9.4%). Contraceptive usage was lower in patients with SLE (25.6%) and RA (33%) compared to WNCI (56.4%). Disease exacerbations occurred in 20% of SLE patients during pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

More pregnancies occur in SLE than in RA after diagnosis of illness. Unplanned pregnancies and adverse pregnancy outcomes need to be addressed more in SLE than in RA or in WNCI.

State of the art: Reproduction and pregnancy in rheumatic diseases

Throughout the last decade, increasing awareness has been raised on issues related to reproduction in rheumatic diseases including basic research to clarify the important role of estrogens in the etiology and pathophysiology of immune/inflammatory diseases. Sub- or infertility is a heterogeneous condition that can be related to immunological mechanisms, to pregnancy loss, to disease burden, to therapy, and to choices in regard to family size. Progress in reproductive medicine has made it possible for more patients with rheumatic disease to have children. Active disease in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects their children's birth weight and may have long-term effects on their future health status. Pregnancy complications as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction are still increased in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), however, biomarkers can monitor adverse events, and several new therapies may improve outcomes. Pregnancies in women with APS remain a challenge, and better therapies for the obstetric APS are needed. New prospective studies indicate improved outcomes for pregnancies in women with rare diseases like systemic sclerosis and vasculitis. TNF inhibitors hold promise for maintaining remission in rheumatological patients and may be continued at least in the first half of pregnancy. Pre-conceptional counseling and interdisciplinary management of pregnancies are essential for ensuring optimal pregnancy outcomes.

Related factors of fetal loss in Chinese women with systemic lupus erythematosus: data from Chinese SLE Treatment and Research Group registry IV

OBJECTIVE

To study the factors associated with fetal loss in Chinese women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a large cohort of SLE patients in the CSTAR (Chinese SLE Treatment and Research Group) registry.

METHODS

We compared the clinical characteristics and auto-antibody profiles between SLE patients with fetal loss and SLE patients with normal pregnancies. The relationship between selected variables and fetal loss was examined by univariate analysis and binary logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 992 patients with 2026 pregnancies were recruited. Fifty women experienced fetal loss, including 49 spontaneous abortion, eight stillbirths and three neonatal deaths. The overall fetal loss rate was 3.0% (60/2026). Arthritis and serositis were observed significantly more frequently (P < 0.05) in normal pregnancy women. The rate of thrombocytopenia was significantly increased in patients with fetal loss (30.0% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.010), while there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of nephropathy, central nervous system involvement between the normal pregnancy group and fetal loss group. Factors that associated with fetal loss included anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) (OR 2.299; 95% CI 1.058-4.993; P = 0.035) and anti-Sjögren syndrome antigen A (SSA) antibody (OR 2.283; 95% CI 1.275-4.088; P = 0.005), and thrombocytopenia (OR 2.241; 95% CI 1.192-4.213; P = 0.012). However, arthritis (OR 0.544, 95% CI 0.307-0.965, P = 0.037) was associated with favorable fetal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Both univariate analysis and binary logistic regression analysis suggest that thrombocytopenia, aPL antibodies and anti-SSA antibody are associated with fetal loss in Chinese SLE women, while arthritis may be a possible factor related to favorable pregnancy outcome.

The challenge of pregnancy for patients with SLE

Pregnancy poses an important challenge for doctors looking after women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Knowledge about safety of medications, the effect of pregnancy on such disease, and vice versa, together with multidisciplinary team care, are basic cornerstones needed to provide the best obstetric and medical care to these women. Pre-conceptional counselling constitutes the ideal scenario where a patient's previous obstetric history, organ damage, disease activity, serological profile and additional medical history can be summarized. Important issues regarding medication adjustment, planned scans and visits, and main risks discussion should also be raised at this stage. Planned pregnancies lead to better outcomes for both mothers and babies. Close surveillance throughout pregnancy and the puerperium, and tailored management approach guarantee the highest rates of successful pregnancies in these women.

[Lupus and pregnancy: study of 26 cases, an internal medicine department experience and review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To study the maternal and fetal outcomes in women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 26 pregnancies in 15 systemic erythematosus patients diagnosed before or during pregnancy regarding to American College of Rheumatology criteria in a single reference center.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 31.52 years (24-39 years). The mean interval from the diagnosis of the systemic lupus erythematosus to pregnancy was 4.2 years. Eight pregnancies were planned. The flare rate of lupus during pregnancy was 31%, life birth rate was 65% and fetal loss rate was 35%.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

As an increase in disease activity can occur during pregnancy and because of a higher rate of obstetrical complications in patients with lupus, it is important to carefully plan pregnancy. Pregnancy in lupus patients must be closely monitored by a multispeciality care of the patients.

Ethnic differences in the number of miscarriages, number of children, perceived family support and the impact of the disease on daily living in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Our aim was to test for ethnic differences in the number of children, number of miscarriages, family support and the impact of the disease on daily living among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Patients with SLE (n = 54) who attended two hospitals in Essex, UK, were asked to complete a semi-structured, validated questionnaire. The number of children and the number of miscarriages were reported numerically. The level of family support and the impact of the disease on daily living were reported using 10 cm visual analogue scales (VAS) in which 10 cm represented the maximum support and worst effect on daily living, respectively. There were 20 Caucasian, 22 Asian and 12 African/Afro-Caribbean patients. There were 50 females and four males. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age was 45.9 ± 12.2 years, and the mean ± SD age at disease onset was 35.6 ± 11.1 years. Overall, 34/50 female patients (68 %) reported having children of their own, while 17/50 female patients (34 %) reported one or more miscarriages. The miscarriages were mostly reported by Caucasian patients (45 % versus 18.1 % for Asian and 33.3 % for African/Afro-Caribbean patients; P < 0.05). All of the groups received support from their families (90.7 % overall), but the level of support was greater for Caucasian (mean ± SD VAS, 6.6 ± 3.4 cm) than for Asian (5.4 ± 3.9 cm) and African/Afro-Caribbean (5.4 ± 4.9 cm) patients (P = 0.06). More than half of the patients (53.7 %) reported a severe impact of SLE on daily living, while 13 % reported a moderate impact, 22.2 % reported a mild impact and 11.1 % reported no impact. The impact of SLE on daily living was significantly worse for African/Afro-Caribbean patients compared with Asian patients (P < 0.05). Overall, one in two patients with SLE reported having children of their own, while one in three patients reported having at least one miscarriage. Ninety percent of the patients received family support for their disease. Miscarriages and family support were more frequently reported by Caucasian patients. Asian patients had more children and experienced fewer miscarriages, while African/Afro-Caribbean patients reported a worse impact of the disease on daily living compared with the other ethnic groups.

Newborns whose mother has autoimmune disease. A community hospitals' experience

Mothers with autoimmune diseases (AID) may have exacerbations of their disease during pregnancy and postpartum period, with fetal implications and neonatal complications. The aim of this study was to describe miscarriages during pregnancy and postpartum problems among mothers with AID and associated neonatal pathology. Retrospective data was recorded from 2004 to 2010. 29 mothers with AID were analyzed, 65% of whom had lupus erythematosus (SLE). There were 52 pregnancies, which resulted in 39 newborns. There were 10 instances of maternal complications (25.6%) during the pregnancies, including 1 with digital vasculitis, 1 with pancreatitis, 1 outbreak of glomerulonephritis, 1 case of gestational diabetes, 2 patients at risk for preterm birth, 3 with preeclampsia and 1 with eclampsia. During the postpartum period, there was one case of SLE exacerbation. Among the newborns 20.5% had low birth weight and 4 exhibited the transplacental passage of maternal antibodies with one case of neonatal lupus. Among complications beyond the neonatal period, 8 (20.5%) children developed asthma, one presented negative ANA oligoarthritis and another presented immune thrombocytopenic purpura. In our hospital, the rates of miscarriage, prematurity and LBW among the newborns of mothers with AID are similar to those reported in the literature. The observation of a case of NL with the transplacental passage of anti-Sm is remarkable.

Impact of previous lupus nephritis on maternal and fetal outcomes during pregnancy

Previous reports suggest that renal involvement before pregnancy or active renal disease during pregnancy may be associated with poor fetal and maternal outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) women. We report our experience of fetal and maternal complications in pregnant lupus women with and without previous lupus nephritis. We analyzed the clinical records of pregnant SLE patients attended in a tertiary reference center during a 5-year period. Patients were allocated into two groups according to the presence or absence of previous lupus nephritis. Women were evaluated monthly during pregnancy and at least 1 month postpartum. Maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancy were abstracted. We included 95 pregnancies in 92 patients. Compared with pregnant women without lupus nephritis (n = 60), pregnancies with previous lupus nephritis (n = 35) were associated with a higher risk of maternal complications (88.5% vs. 43.3%, p = 0.00001), higher rate of lupus flares (54.2% vs. 25%, p = 0.004), and renal flares (45.7% vs. 6.6%, p = 0.00001), but most of which in most instances were reversible. On the other hand, fetal outcome was similar in both groups. Multivariate analysis showed that previous lupus nephritis and active lupus at conception were predictors of adverse maternal outcome. Pregnancies in women with previous lupus nephritis had a higher rate of maternal complications in comparison with those without. However, fetal prognosis was similar in both groups.

[Management of pregnancy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus]

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are exposed to a remarkably high number of maternal-fetal complications during pregnancy. Knowledge regarding the reciprocal influence between lupus and pregnancy is the starting point to assure that these patients are correctly monitored. It is also important to carry out comprehensive preconception evaluation to individually evaluate the risk of each patient. The immunological profile, history of nephritis, presence of chronic damage and disease activity are the basic data that will determine the specific individual risk profile. Finally, correct drug management must be assured during this period, based on the safety profile of the different treatments during pregnancy and lactation.

Pregnancy Outcomes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with and without Previous Nephritis

Objective.

To compare rates and predictors of pregnancy complications in mothers with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without previous nephritis (PN).

Methods.

Retrospective analysis of 107 pregnancies in 83 women with SLE diagnosed prepregnancy.

Results.

Mothers with PN had higher rates of preterm delivery (< 37/40, 30% vs 11%, p = 0.029) than those without PN. Women with PN had earlier onset of preeclampsia [median 34.5 weeks (IQR 32–37) vs 37.5 weeks (IQR 35–38, p = 0.047)] that was more frequently complicated by preterm delivery (p = 0.02). Risk factors for preeclampsia in women with PN include 10–13 weeks’ gestation diastolic blood pressure > 80 mmHg and proteinuria, and prepregnancy estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 90 ml/min/1.73 m2. In women with PN, midtrimester uterine-artery-Doppler notching had low negative predictive value (47%). After 39 months followup, eGFR was stable in women with or without PN.

Conclusion.

In SLE, preterm deliveries are more frequent and preeclampsia occurs earlier in women with PN, but longterm eGFR is preserved.

Lupus and pregnancy: integrating clues from the bench and bedside

Adequate pregnancy care of women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) rests on three pillars: a coordinated medical-obstetrical care, an agreed and well-defined management protocol and a good neonatal unit. Pregnancy should be planned following a preconceptional visit for counselling. Women with severe active disease or a high degree of irreversible damage, such as those with symptomatic pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, severe restrictive pulmonary disease or severe chronic renal failure should best avoid pregnancy. Treatment is based on hydroxychloroquine, low-dose steroids and azathioprine. Patients with antiphospholipid antibodies/syndrome should receive low-dose aspirin +/- low molecular weight heparin. The addition and the dose of heparin depend on the clinical profile of the patient, i.e. a previous history of miscarriage, foetal loss, placental insufficiency or thrombosis. A close surveillance, with monitoring of blood pressure, proteinuria and placental blood flow by Doppler studies helps the early diagnosis and treatment of complications such as preeclampsia and foetal distress. Postpartum follow-up is important.

Pregnancy outcome in 396 pregnancies in patients with SLE in Saudi Arabia

The aim of this study was to examine the pregnancy outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the effect of SLE flare and treatment on pregnancy outcomes. We performed a retrospective evaluation of all pregnancies occurring in patients with SLE during the 27-year period from 1980 to 2006. Of the 319 women with SLE planning pregnancy after SLE onset, 176 (55.2%) conceived resulting in 396 pregnancies. Live births were significantly lower in proportion (70.2% vs. 85.7%) and more likely to end in fetal deaths (29.7% vs. 14.2%) and preterm births (26.7% vs. 5.8 %) in pregnancies occurring after SLE onset than in pregnancies occurring before SLE onset (p < 0.0001). With respect to different disease manifestations, we found that fetal loss was significantly higher in patients with antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies than without (p < 0.001). Preterm deliveries were significantly more frequent in patients with lupus nephritis, anti-Ro/SSA antibodies, hypertension, history of intravenous cyclophosphamide treatment and aPL than those without these features (p < 0.05). Neonates with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) neonates were more common in hypertensive and Raynaud's-positive pregnancies (p < 0.05). SLE flares occurred in 30.8% pregnancies. There was increased risk of fetal loss, preterm births and IUGR in pregnancies with SLE exacerbations than without (p < 0.05). Prednisolone was found to improve the rate of live births, although it was also a predictor of prematurity. The predictors of pregnancy loss were lupus nephritis (odds ratio (OR) 7.3), aPL (OR 3.9), and SLE flares in pregnancy (OR 1.9). There was higher risk of preterm deliveries in patients with lupus nephritis (OR 18.9), anti-Ro antibodies (OR 13.9), hypertension (OR 15.7) and SLE flares (OR 2.5). IUGR was found to be associated with hypertension (OR 37.7), Raynaud's (OR 12.3), and SLE flares (OR 4.2). In conclusion, pregnancies in SLE patients with active lupus nephritis, anti-Ro/SSA antibodies, aPL, hypertension, Raynaud's phenomenon, active disease at conception and SLE exacerbations are at a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. It is important to carefully plan pregnancy, and experienced rheumatologists and obstetricians should monitor SLE patients in pregnancy and postpartum.

Lupus nephritis mimicking pyelonephritis in pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE) is a multisystemic autoimmune connective tissue disorder that presents with a wide range of clinical manifestations including renal involvement. Routine prenatal care includes assessment of renal function.

CASE

A 29-year-old nullipara presented at 17 weeks with fever, vomiting, and costovertebral angle tenderness 1 week after being treated for a presumed urinary tract infection. On presentation, new-onset hypertension was noted. Inpatient evaluation established a diagnosis of SLE with lupus nephritis. The pregnancy ended with intrauterine fetal demise.

CONCLUSION

SLE is a disease with complex and protean clinical manifestations. It should appear on the differential when more common disease processes are ruled out. Routine prenatal care can detect otherwise silent and undiagnosed renal disease, and with early intervention improve prognosis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of pregnancy outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Studies of the impact of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its pregnancy complications have yielded conflicting results. Major limitations of these studies relate to their small numbers of patients and retrospective designs. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic literature review of pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE and a meta-analysis of the association of lupus nephritis with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

We searched electronic databases from 1980 to 2009 and reviewed papers with validity criteria. Random-effects analytical methods were used to evaluate pregnancy complications rates.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven studies with 1842 patients and 2751 pregnancies were included. Maternal complications included lupus flare (25.6%), hypertension (16.3%), nephritis (16.1%), pre-eclampsia (7.6%), and eclampsia (0.8%). The induced abortion rate was 5.9%, and when excluded, fetal complications included spontaneous abortion (16.0%), stillbirth (3.6%), neonatal deaths (2.5%), and intrauterine growth retardation (12.7%). The unsuccessful pregnancy rate was 23.4%, and the premature birth rate was 39.4%. Meta-regression analysis showed statistically significant positive associations between premature birth rate and active nephritis and increased hypertension rates in subjects with active nephritis or a history of nephritis. History of nephritis was also associated with pre-eclampsia. Anti-phospholipid antibodies were associated with hypertension, premature birth, and an increased rate of induced abortion.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with SLE, both lupus nephritis and anti-phospholipid antibodies increase the risks for maternal hypertension and premature births. The presented evidence further supports timing of pregnancy relative to SLE activity and multispecialty care of these patients.

Successful prevention of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) relapse using monthly prophylactic plasma exchanges throughout pregnancy in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and a prior history of refractory TTP and recurrent fetal loss

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in the setting systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is rare. In women of childbearing age, TTP is associated with high rates of recurrence in pregnancy. Furthermore, both TTP and SLE are associated with a significant risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

CASE PRESENTATION

We describe the case of a 36 year old female in her first trimester of pregnancy with a prior history of SLE-associated severe refractory TTP who was treated with a combination of corticosteroids and prophylactic plasma exchanges (PLEX) throughout pregnancy to prevent TTP recurrence. She delivered a healthy infant at 33 weeks of gestation after the onset of preterm labor. There was no evidence of TTP recurrence in the antepartum or postpartum period in this high risk patient.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic PLEX should be considered as a therapeutic option to prevent recurrent TTP during pregnancy in high risk patients, including patients with previous SLE-associated TTP.

Activation of the alternative pathway of complement is a feature of pre-term parturition but not of spontaneous labor at term

PROBLEM

Plasma concentrations of fragment Bb (FBb) are a marker for activation of the alternative pathway of the complement system. High concentrations of FBb in maternal blood, as early as the first trimester, are associated with subsequent spontaneous pre-term delivery <34 weeks of gestation. The aim of this study was to determine whether spontaneous pre-term labor (PTL) with intact membranes, intra-amniotic infection/inflammation (IAI) or labor at term are associated with alterations in circulating maternal FBb concentrations.

METHOD OF STUDY

This cross-sectional study included women in the following groups: (i) non-pregnant (n = 40); (ii) normal pregnancy (gestational age range 20-36, 6/7 weeks, n = 63); (iii) women at term not in labor (n = 70); (iv) women at term in spontaneous labor (n = 59); (v) patients with an episode of PTL who delivered at term (n = 62); (vi) PTL without IAI who delivered pre-term (n = 30); and (vii) PTL with IAI who delivered pre-term (n = 67). Maternal plasma FBb concentrations were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

(i) Among patients with PTL, those who had a pre-term delivery either with IAI (1.21 microg/mL, IQR 0.77-2.16) or without IAI (1.13 microg/mL, IQR 0.92-2.08) had a higher median maternal plasma FBb concentration than those who delivered at term (0.86 microg/mL, IQR 0.64-1.57; P = 0.007 and P = 0.026, respectively); (ii) there was no difference in the median plasma FBb concentration between patients with and without IAI who delivered pre-term (P = 0.9); (iii) in contrast, spontaneous labor at term was not associated with a significant change in the maternal plasma FBb concentration (P = 0.8); (iv) maternal plasma concentration of FBb did not differ significantly between normal pregnant women and the non-pregnant controls (P = 0.8) and were not correlated with advancing gestational age (r = -0.28, P = 0.8).

CONCLUSION

(i) Pre-term parturition is associated with activation of the alternative complement pathway in maternal circulation; (ii) such activation is not detectable in spontaneous labor at term; (iii) IAI does not explain the activation of the alternative pathway of complement in PTL. Collectively, these observations suggest that pre-term and term labors have fundamental differences in the regulation of innate immunity.

Maternal plasma visfatin in preterm labor

OBJECTIVE

Visfatin, a novel adipokine with diabetogenic and immunoregulatory properties, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of insulin resistance, as well as in various acute and chronic inflammatory disorders. We have previously reported that amniotic fluid concentrations of visfatin are higher in patients with preterm labor (PTL) and intra-amniotic infection than in patients with PTL without infection. The aim of this study was to determine whether spontaneous PTL with intact membranes and intra-amniotic infection/inflammation (IAI) is associated with changes in maternal plasma circulating visfatin concentrations.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study included patients in the following groups: (1) normal pregnant women (n = 123); (2) patients with an episode of PTL and intact membranes without IAI who delivered at term (n = 57); (3) PTL without IAI who delivered preterm (n = 47); and (4) PTL with IAI who delivered preterm (n = 57). Plasma visfatin concentrations were determined by ELISA. Non-parametric statistics were used for analysis.

RESULTS

(1) PTL with IAI leading to preterm delivery was associated with a higher median maternal plasma concentration of visfatin than normal pregnancy; (2) among patients with PTL, those with IAI had the highest median maternal concentration of visfatin; (3) the changes in maternal plasma visfatin remained significant after adjusting for maternal age, body mass index, gestational age at sampling, and birth weight.

CONCLUSION

(1) PTL with IAI is characterized by high maternal circulating visfatin concentrations; (2) these findings suggest that visfatin plays a role in the regulation of the metabolic adaptations to insults resulting in PTL in the context of IAI.

The implications of autoimmunity and pregnancy

There are multiple epidemiological studies that document the potential adverse affects of autoimmunity on nearly every aspect of reproduction, even in the absence of clinically manifest autoimmune disease. Two decades ago, it was suggested that women with autoimmune diseases avoid pregnancy due to inordinate risks to the mother and the child. In contrast, newer epidemiological data demonstrated that advances in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and the management of pregnant women with these diseases have similarly improved the prognosis for mother and child. In particular, if pregnancy is planned during periods of inactive or stable disease, the result often is giving birth to healthy full-term babies without increased risks of pregnancy complications. Nonetheless, pregnancies in most autoimmune diseases are still classified as high risk because of the potential for major complications. These complications include disease exacerbations during gestation and increased perinatal mortality and morbidity in most autoimmune diseases, whereas fetal mortality is characteristic of the anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). In this review, we will discuss these topics, including issues of hormones, along with potential long-term effects of the microchimerism phenomenon. With respect to pregnancy and autoimmune diseases, epidemiological studies have attempted to address the following questions: 1) Is it safe for the mother to become pregnant or are there acute or chronic effects of pregnancy on the course of the disease? 2) Does the disease alter the course and/or the outcome of a pregnancy and thereby represent an inordinate risk for the fetus and infant? And do new therapeutic and management approaches improve the pregnancy outcomes in women with autoimmune diseases? 3) Does passage of maternal autoantibodies represent a risk to the child? 4) Do pregnancy, parity, or other factors influencing hormonal status explain the female predominance of many autoimmune diseases, and is the pregnancy effect related to microchimerism? Answering these questions has taken on additional importance in recent decades as women in western countries now frequently choose to delay pregnancies and have some or all of their pregnancies after disease onset. In this paper, we primarily focus on APS, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Dysregulation of maternal serum adiponectin in preterm labor

OBJECTIVE

Intra-amniotic and systemic infection/inflammation have been causally linked to preterm parturition and fetal injury. An emerging theme is that adipose tissue can orchestrate a metabolic response to insults, but also an inflammatory response via the production of adipocytokines, and that these two phenomenons are interrelated. Adiponectin, an insulin-sensitising, anti-inflammatory adipocytokine, circulates in multimeric complexes including low-molecular weight (LMW) trimers, medium-molecular weight (MMW) hexamers and high-molecular weight (HMW) isoforms. Each of these complexes can exert differential biological effects. The aim of this study was to determine whether spontaneous preterm labor (PTL) with intact membranes and intra-amniotic infection/inflammation (IAI) is associated with changes in maternal serum circulating adiponectin multimers.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study included patients in the following groups: (1) normal pregnant women (n=158); (2) patients with an episode of preterm labor and intact membranes without IAI who delivered at term (n=41); (3) preterm labor without IAI who delivered preterm (n=27); and (4) preterm labor with IAI who delivered preterm (n=36). Serum adiponectin multimers (total, HMW, MMW and LMW) concentrations were determined by ELISA. Non-parametric statistics were used for analyses.

RESULTS

(1) Preterm labor leading to preterm delivery or an episode of preterm labor that does not lead to preterm delivery was associated with a lower median maternal serum concentration of total and HMW adiponectin, a lower median HMW/total adiponectin ratio and a higher median LMW/total adiponectin ratio than normal pregnancy; (2) among patients with preterm labor, those with IAI had the lowest median concentration of total and HMW adiponectin, as well as the lowest median HMW/total adiponectin ratio; (3) the changes in maternal adiponectin and adiponectin multimers remained significant after adjusting for confounding factors such as maternal age, BMI, gestational age at sampling and parity.

CONCLUSION

(1) Preterm labor is characterised by a change in the profile of adiponectin multimers concentrations and their relative isoforms. These changes were observed in patients with an episode of preterm labor not leading to preterm delivery, in patients with intra-amniotic inflammation, or in those without evidence of intra-amniotic inflammation. (2) The changes in adiponectin multimer concentrations reported in preterm labor are different from those previously reported in spontaneous labor at term, suggesting that there is a fundamental difference between preterm labor and labor at term. (3) The findings reported herein provide the first evidence for the participation of adiponectin multimer in preterm parturition. We propose that adiponectins and adipokines in general provide a mechanism to organise the metabolic demands generated by the process of preterm parturition regardless of the nature of the insult (intra-amniotic inflammation or not).

Pregnancy outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is improving: Results from a case control study and literature review

OBJECTIVES

For women who suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), pregnancy can be a concern, placing the mother and fetus at risk. Our objectives were to assess the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome, disease flares, fertility rate, and co-morbidities in SLE women compared to healthy controls. We also systematically reviewed the literature available on pregnancy outcome in SLE to compare our results to other published data. Our hypothesis was that pregnancy outcome in SLE is improving over time.

METHODS

A case-control study comparing self-report of the above-mentioned parameters in SLE (N=108) vs healthy controls or patients with non-inflammatory musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders (N=134) was performed. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Proportions, means and odds ratios were calculated. We searched and quantified the literature on pregnancy outcome, lupus reactivation and fertility rate. Data were summarized and presented in mean % ± SEM and median % with interquartile range (IQR).

RESULTS

Gynecological history, fertility rate and age at first pregnancy in SLE patients were comparable to controls. Eighteen percent of SLE patients reported a flare and 18% reported an improvement of symptoms during pregnancy. Twenty-four percent of lupus patients had at least one preterm delivery vs 5% in controls (OR =8.32, p = 0.0008), however other pregnancy outcomes (miscarriage, therapeutic abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death rate) did not differ between the groups. Thyroid problems were reported to be more likely in SLE patients (p = 0.02), but the prevalence of other co-morbidities was similar to controls. A literature review demonstrated that fertility was not affected in SLE patients. Lupus reactivations are common during pregnancy (36.5% ± SEM 3.3%). Most agreed that SLE pregnancies had more fetal loss (19.5% ± SEM 1.6%) and preterm births (25.5% ± SEM 2.2%) when compared to the general population. Over time, the rate of SLE peripartum flares has improved (p = 0.002) and the proportion of pregnancies resulting in live birth has increased (p = 0.024). The frequency of fetal death has not significantly changed. Our findings from the case-control study were, in general, consistent with the literature including the frequency of fetal death, neonatal death, live births and pregnancy rate.

CONCLUSION

Prematurity (25.5% ± SEM 2.2%) and fetal death (19.5% ± SEM 1.6%) in SLE pregnancy are still a concern. However, new strategies with respect to pregnancy timing and multidisciplinary care have improved maternal and fetal outcome in SLE.

Pregnancy outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by anti-phospholipid antibodies

OBJECTIVE

Pregnant women affected by SLE are at high risk of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia (32-50%). This risk is particularly elevated if aPLs are dosable. The present study was planned to evaluate maternal-fetal outcomes of different groups of SLE pregnant patients characterized by diverse risk factors: patients affected by APS treated with a combination of low-dose aspirin (LDA) and low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH), nulliparous patients with dosable aPL treated by LMWH and SLE patients with no aPL administered no treatment during pregnancy.

METHODS

A retrospective description of maternal and fetal outcomes was made in a total of 62 pregnancies presenting APS in 8 cases (12.9%), aPL in 20 (32.2%) and no aPL in 34 (54.8%).

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found comparing fetal and maternal outcomes of the three groups despite differences in SLE activity: SLE aPL-positive pregnancies were associated with a higher incidence of nephritis and chronic hypertension than pregnancies treated for APS or not presenting with the added risk factor. The incidence of pre-eclampsia is 15% in aPL positive, 12.5% in APS and 14.7% in no aPL pregnancies, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

LMWH is rather a possible option of prophylaxis for SLE aPL-positive pregnancies with potential maternal-fetal outcomes similar to aPL-negative patients or to standard treated APS.