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Updated: May 13, 2026
09:43
Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
Published on: June 8, 2022
Myopathy complicating lupus pregnancy.
Roberta Priori1, Angelica Gattamelata, Giulia d'Amati
1Rheumatology, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche, Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, Italy.
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus in pregnancy can lead to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) toxicity, causing myopathy. Discontinuing HCQ resolved muscle issues, with safe reintroduction post-delivery.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Obstetrics
- Toxicology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis in a pregnant patient.
- Presentation included leukopenia, rash, and muscle involvement.
- Positive serology for antinuclear antibodies and anti-double-stranded DNA.
Observation:
- Treatment initiated at 18 weeks gestation with corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ).
- Initial benefit observed, but muscle involvement was resistant to treatment.
- Muscle biopsy revealed signs consistent with HCQ toxicity.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of HCQ led to the resolution of muscle involvement.
- Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) was safely reintroduced several months after delivery.
- Pregnancy may have acted as a second hit, precipitating HCQ-related myopathy in SLE.
Implications:
- Highlights a potential drug toxicity complication during pregnancy in SLE patients.
- Suggests careful monitoring for myopathy in pregnant SLE patients on HCQ.
- Informs clinical management regarding HCQ use and potential toxicity during and after pregnancy.
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