Pregnancy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Ten pregnancies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were reviewed. Preterm delivery occurred in 4 cases (40%), fetal growth retardation in 2 (20%) and intrauterine death in 2 (20%). Preeclampsia developed in one case, which was the only found maternal complication. The most important factor associated with poor outcome was lack of antenatal care. Most of the SLE-complicated pregnancies can anticipate a favorable outcome if, and only if, there is a well-planned management with close cooperation among the patient, obstetrician, rheumatologist and neonatologist.