Lupus nephritis and pregnancy

Abstract

Sixty-four pregnancies in 41 women with biopsy proven lupus nephritis between 1965 and 1991 were analysed to record fetal and maternal outcome and identify risk factors for poor outcome. Of 65 fetuses, 22 (34 per cent) were lost (including therapeutic abortions), 19 (30 per cent) were live born but premature (= 36 weeks gestation) and 24 (37 per cent) were term. Fetal loss after 20 weeks gestation was 19 per cent. Twelve per cent of 25 fetuses whose birthweight was recorded were small for gestational age. Maternal renal function deteriorated in 19 per cent of pregnancies but was irreversible post-partum in only one woman (2 per cent). Hypertension was recorded in 44 per cent of pregnancies, ..