Systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome

Fawzi Saoud, Maged M. Costantine

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects virtually every organ system. Management of both SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) during pregnancy requires vigilance for signs and symptoms of disease exacerbation, aggressive treatment when needed, and careful assessment of fetal well-being. A multidisciplinary approach is essential and should include a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, a rheu matologist, the patient’s obstetrician, and, if renal disease is present, a nephrologist. Women with SLE are at risk for several obstetric complications, sometimes resulting in serious maternal and perinatal morbidity. Breastfeeding is considered safe for women with SLE since hydroxychlo roquine, azathioprine, and prednisone all have very limited transfer into breast milk and may be continued during this critical time. Some APS-related pregnancy complications, particularly fetal loss, are probably related to abnormal placental function due to narrowing and thrombosis in decidual spiral arteries.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCritical Care Obstetrics
Publisherwiley
Pages873-889
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)9781119129400
ISBN (Print)9781119129370
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2018

Keywords

  • Antiphospholipid syndrome
  • Breastfeeding
  • Maternal-fetal medicine specialist
  • Obstetric complications
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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