A 1-year review of anti-Ro/La autoantibody testing in an obstetric population

To evaluate current anti-Ro and anti-La autoantibody ordering patterns, clinical indications for performing these tests, and potential cost-benefit analysis.

In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent autoantibody testing over 1 year were included. Necessary information was obtained from patient electronic records.

In total 47 patients underwent anti-Ro/La autoantibody testing. Of those tested, 11/47 (2%) had positive results and testing was clinically indicated in 26/47 (55%) patients, indicating minimal cost-benefits. The total rate of the cost prescription was €1644.96. The mean time to process tests was 5 days. In those with positive autoantibodies, two infants were diagnosed with congenital heart block and had pacemakers inserted after delivery.

This study found anti-Ro/La autoantibody tests were appropriately ordered in accordance with clinical guidelines. By identifying patients who were autoantibody negative, economic benefits were gained, in terms of antenatal management including reduced frequency of antenatal visits and fetal heart surveillance.