Successful Pregnancy with SLE-associated Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report

Pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Risk is significantly increased when SLE pregnancy is complicated by anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). Here, we present a case of a 21 year-old multi-gravid lady with SLE- associated APS who was diagnosed as such when she presented with multisystem flare at her 16 weeks of gestation. At presentation she had fever, multiple joint pain in both upper and lower limbs, loss of hair, history of recurrent oral ulcer, skin rash over hand and feet. Physical examination and laboratory evaluation were consistent with an active SLE flare. A diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was made based on her clinical presentation and laboratory findings. The reported patient had APS secondary to SLE. She had all the risk factors that would confer a remarkably high risk of pregnancy morbidity: positive anti-SSA(RO) antibody and lupus anticoagulant, history of one neonatal death due to congenital heart block and two consecutive first trimester pregnancy loss. Multidisciplinary management approach with appropriate intervention and close monitoring can bring a successful outcome.