Use of antimalarial drugs is associated with a lower risk of preeclampsia in lupus pregnancy: A prospective cohort study

Active but not quiescent lupus nephritis during pregnancy is associated with a higher rate of adverse obstetric outcomes: Analysis of a prospective cohort

OBJECTIVE

To compare the maternal-fetal/neonatal outcome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without lupus nephritis (LN) in remission or with active disease.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of pregnant patients with SLE (ACR 1997 criteria) was studied from January 2009 to December 2021. Demographic, clinical, biochemical, and immunological variables as well as the usual maternal-fetal/neonatal complications were recorded. We compared four groups according to the status of SLE during pregnancy: patients with quiescent SLE without lupus nephritis, patients with active SLE without lupus nephritis, patients with quiescent lupus nephritis, and patients with active lupus nephritis. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 439 pregnancies were studied, with a median age of 28 ± 6, SLE duration of 60 months (interquartile range 36-120). A higher frequency of maternal and fetal/neonatal complications was observed in patients with active SLE with or without lupus nephritis. Multivariate analysis showed that active LN was a risk factor for gestational hypertension (hazard ratios [HR] 1.95; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.01-6.39), premature rupture of membranes (HR 3.56; 95% CI: 1.79-16.05) and more frequent cesarean section (HR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.13-2.94).

CONCLUSION

LN is associated with a higher frequency of maternal complications, especially in those patients with active disease during pregnancy, and those maternal complications had an impact on poor fetal/neonatal outcomes. Strict control and timely care of LN could improve the obstetric prognosis.

Pregnancy outcome predictors in systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To enhance patient-tailored preconception risk assessment for women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), knowledge on risk factors associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes is required. Therefore, we did a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify and provide unambiguous effect sizes of preconception predictors of pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed and Embase for studies reporting preconception predictors of pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE, from database inception to Aug 22, 2023. Studies were included if they presented original, quantitative data on pregnant women with SLE and reported on preconception risk factors on at least one of the outcomes as defined in the protocol. Studies were excluded if they had a sample size of less than 20 patients, were restricted to multiple pregnancies, had unclear timing of prognostication, or exclusively reported a composite outcome. Literature screening, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment (quality in prognostic studies tool) were done by two reviewers independently, in a blinded, standardised manner. The reported outcomes included livebirth, pre-eclampsia, small for gestational age, preterm birth, pregnancy loss before and after 20 weeks of gestation, and SLE flares. We computed pooled univariate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs using a random effects model. We assessed heterogeneity using the I2 statistic and prediction intervals. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022344732.

FINDINGS

Of the 6705 unique articles identified, 72 (1·1%) were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 10 355 pregnancies in 8065 women with SLE. One potentially eligible study was retracted and therefore removed from our analysis. Previous lupus nephritis was associated with decreased livebirth probability (OR 0·62 [95% CI 0·47-0·81]; I2=0%), increased risk of preterm birth (2·00 [1·55-2·57]; I2=17%), and increased risk of pre-eclampsia (3·11 [2·35-4·12]; I2=0%). Chronic hypertension was associated with increased risk of disease flare (2·50 [1·74-3·58]; I2=0%), preterm birth (2·65 [1·87-3·77]; I2=0%), and pre-eclampsia (5·86 [3·41-10·06]; I2=33%). SLE disease activity at conception or preconception was associated with increased risk of preterm birth (2·91 [1·96-4·33]; I2=21%) and pre-eclampsia (2·32 [1·40-3·83]; I2=0%). Secondary antiphospholipid syndrome was associated with decreased livebirth probability (0·40 [0·27-0·58]; I2=0%), increased risk of pregnancy loss after 20 weeks of gestation (2·77 [1·44-5·31]; I2=0%), and increased risk of preterm birth (1·65 [1·29-2·11]; I2=0%). Across studies, risk-of-bias assessment suggested considerable bias in study attrition and confounding.

INTERPRETATION

We identified previous lupus nephritis, chronic hypertension, SLE disease activity before and at conception, and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome as predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE. These findings contribute to an optimal patient-tailored risk assessment in preconception counselling.

FUNDING

None.

Pregnancies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus during 2000-2018 in Finland: a case-control study

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to investigate, how pregnancies proceed in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared to their individually matched population controls.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Adult incident SLE patients were identified from the register of new special reimbursement decisions for SLE drugs in 2000-2014. For each patient, 1-3 randomly selected controls from the Population Register Centre were matched. Data regarding pregnancies were obtained from the Finnish Medical Birth Register, Care Register and Register of Congenital Malformations until 2018. The study utilized data from the Drug Purchase Register and educational information from Statistic Finland.

RESULTS

A total of 163 deliveries for 103 mothers with SLE and 580 deliveries for 371 population controls were identified. The duration of pregnancies in SLE women was significantly shorter compared to controls (38.9 versus 39.6 weeks). There were more urgent Caesarean Sections. (15% versus 9%) and need for care at neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (21% versus 11%) among deliveries in SLE mothers. No statistical difference was observed between SLE and control groups in the occurrence of preeclampsia or major congenital malformations. Gestational age was 2.5 weeks shorter when the mother experienced pre-eclampsia. Hydroxychloroquine was purchased by 30% of SLE mothers during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The course of pregnancies in Finnish SLE patients seems to be quite moderate compared to controls, and no new safety issues were detected. The low utilization of hydroxychloroquine indicates that the benefits of the drug to pregnancy and disease course are not optimally recognized by specialists treating SLE mothers.

Predictive Factors for the Common Adverse Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Pregnancies Complicated by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of pregnancy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It focused on identifying clinical and laboratory markers that could predict the common adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) after 20 weeks of gestation, namely preeclampsia (PE) and preterm birth (PTB) in them.

Methods

Pregnant SLE women who delivered at the study center from 2010 to 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Categorical variables were evaluated using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, while continuous variables underwent Mann-Whitney U testing. Stepwise regression was used to assess the predictors of pregnancy outcomes.

Results

The study enrolled 445 pregnancies in 408 women diagnosed with SLE. Of these, 202 pregnancies (45.4%) resulted in at least one APO. Disease flare-ups, hypertension, and proteinuria during the first trimester were primary predictors of at least one APO and PTB. The most frequently recorded maternal adverse outcome was PE (14.6%), while PTB accounted for 32.6% of fetal adverse outcomes. Multivariate regression analysis identified hypertension, history of PE, associated antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), proteinuria, and low serum C4 in the first trimester as independent risk factors for PE. Regular follow-ups at our center correlated with lower risks of APOs, PE, and PTB. APS also emerged as a risk factor for PTB, whereas the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) during pregnancy seemed to protect against PTB.

Conclusion

For pregnancies complicated by SLE, we recommend early pregnancy screening for proteinuria-even in the absence of lupus nephritis-as well as continued use of HCQ and routine prenatal care throughout pregnancy.

Expert Perspective on a Clinical Challenge: Lupus and Pregnancy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a multiorgan systemic inflammatory disorder, predominantly affects women during their reproductive years. In this review, we summarize the state of knowledge about preconception planning and management of SLE during pregnancy. Achieving remission or low disease activity for several months on medications compatible with pregnancy prior to conception is essential to decreasing the risk of disease flare and improving pregnancy outcomes, including pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction. With close management and well-controlled disease before and during pregnancy, <10% of patients flare. All patients with SLE should remain on hydroxychloroquine unless contraindicated. Expectant mothers with a history of antiphospholipid syndrome should be treated with anticoagulant therapy during pregnancy. Women with anti-Ro/SSA or anti-La/SSB antibodies require additional monitoring because their offspring are at increased risk for congenital heart block. Patients with SLE should be offered low-dose aspirin starting at the end of the first trimester to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. Flares of SLE during pregnancy require escalation of therapy. The immunosuppressives azathioprine, tacrolimus, and cyclosporine are compatible with pregnancy, and biologic agents can also be considered. Glucocorticoid use in pregnancy should be limited to the lowest effective dose. Mycophenolate mofetil/mycophenolic acid, methotrexate, leflunomide, and cyclophosphamide are known to be teratogenic and are contraindicated in pregnancy. Distinguishing a flare of lupus nephritis during pregnancy from pre-eclampsia can be particularly challenging. Overall, outcomes in pregnancy for women with lupus are improving, but gaps in knowledge about optimal management strategies persist.

Calcineurin inhibitors in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus during pregnancy: A narrative review with emphasis on efficacy and safety

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) predominantly affects child-bearing women, leading to an elevated risk of maternal and fetal complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Since some medications can cross the placental barrier that persist a threat to both mother and fetus, the risk-benefit ratio of SLE medications should be taken into consideration during pregnancy. Calcineurin inhibitor (CNI), mainly including cyclosporin A, tacrolimus, and voclosporin, is a category of immunosuppressive agents that inhibit calcium/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase calcineurin to block T cell activation. Based on the current clinical evidence, CNI is an alternative in pregnant SLE patients with persistent disease activity (especially lupus nephritis patients) and non-responders to azathioprine. However, there is no comprehensive review that summarizes the efficacy and safety profile of CNI for SLE management during pregnancy. This review presents a summary on the utilization of CNI for SLE management during pregnancy, including the mechanism of action, gestational amelioration of lupus flare, and the balance of maternal benefit-fetal risk, which may provide more references for the management of SLE pregnancies.

Whole blood hydroxychloroquine: Does genetic polymorphism of cytochrome P450 enzymes have a role?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a wide range of clinical manifestations and multifactorial etiologies ranging from environmental to genetic. SLE is associated with dysregulated immunological reactions, with increased immune complex formation leading to end-organ damages such as lupus nephritis, cutaneous lupus, and musculoskeletal disorders. Lupus treatment aims to reduce disease activity, prevent organ damage, and improve long-term patient survival and quality of life. Antimalarial, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is used as a first-line systemic treatment for lupus. It has shown profound efficacy in lupus and its associated conditions. However, wide variation in terms of clinical response to this drug has been observed among this group of patients. This variability has limited the potential of HCQ to achieve absolute clinical benefits. Several factors, including genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 enzymes, have been stipulated as key entities leading to this inter-individual variation. Thus, there is a need for more studies to understand the role of genetic polymorphisms in CYP450 enzymes in the clinical response to HCQ. Focusing on the role of genetic polymorphism on whole blood HCQ in lupus disorder, this review aims to highlight up-to-date pathophysiology of SLE, the mechanism of action of HCQ, and finally the role of genetic polymorphism of CYP450 enzymes on whole blood HCQ level as well as clinical response in lupus.

Complement levels during the first trimester predict disease flare and adverse pregnancy outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus: A network meta-analysis on 532 pregnancies

BACKGROUND

Complement levels have been proposed as candidate biomarkers of disease activity and obstetric risk in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pregnancies, but their reliability has been questioned due to the physiologic fluctuations of complement during gestation. Thus, this network meta-analysis aimed at assessing the clinical significance of complement fluctuations in lupus pregnant women.

METHODS

Corresponding authors of 19 studies meeting inclusion criteria were invited to contribute with additional data including C3 and C4 levels [before pregnancy, at conception, in every trimester (T) and 3 months after delivery]; data were pooled together in a network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 532 lupus women from four studies were included in the analysis. In SLE women, C3 and C4 increased progressively during gestation: levels remained stable during T1 and peaked in T2 to decrease in T3. Patients with previous lupus nephritis (LN) and those who experienced flares during pregnancy had significantly lower mean levels of C3 and C4 at all timepoints. The lowest levels of complement were observed, particularly during T1, in patients with LN and gestational flare. Both reduction and the lack of increase of C3 and C4 levels at T1 versus conception were associated with gestational flares, particularly in LN patients. Pregnancies with flare had a statistically significant higher rate of maternal and fetal complications(60% versus 50.3%; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Low complement levels, particularly in T1, were associated with a higher frequency of gestational flare. Either reduction or smaller increase of C3 and/or C4 levels, even within normal range, might predict flares especially in early gestation.

The prognostic value of neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and serum chemerin to predict maternal-fetal complications in pregnant systemic lupus erythematosus patients

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy in SLE continues to be a challenge. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and chemerin are predictors of preeclampsia in the general population; however, their role as predictors of maternal-fetal complications in pregnant SLE patients has not been analyzed.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prognostic value of NLR and serum chemerin, to predict maternal-fetal complications in pregnant SLE patients, and compare both biomarkers among three study groups.

METHODS

Design: Analytical cross-sectional study of cases and controls with the following study groups: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), preeclampsia, and healthy. NLR and chemerin serum were determined between 20 and 25 weeks of gestation. Patients were evaluated every 4-6 weeks until pregnancy resolution. Maternal and fetal outcomes were registered. We employed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves to validate prognostic values.

RESULTS

Seventy pregnant patients were included: 20 with SLE, 20 with preeclampsia, and 30 healthy pregnant women; NLR values were 4 (2.3-5.6) in SLE, 6 (4.6-9.2) in preeclampsia, and 2.8 (2.1-2.9) in the group of healthy women (p = .0001). Chemerin levels were: 26 (15.3-56.2) in SLE, 96 (37.3-146.2) in preeclampsia, and 24.6 ng/mL (15.3-47.4) in the healthy group (p = .007) Maternal complications were observed in 11 (55%), 20 (100%), and 8 (26%) per group, respectively. Thrombocytopenia was the most frequent complication in all pregnant women, followed by hypertensive disorders. Fetal complications were registered in 12 (60%), 16 (80%), and 2 (6.7%), respectively. Congenital malformations and prematurity were the most frequent fetal complications. NLR had good diagnostic accuracy in predicting maternal-fetal complications (AUROC 0.715) p = .015, CI 95% 0.56-0.86, cut-off point level: 2.9, sensitivity 61%, specificity 78%, positive predictive value (PPV) 65%, negative predictive value (NPV) 75%. Regarding chemerin, a cut-off point level >43 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 72% AUROC 0.75, p = .001, CI 95% 0.61-0.89, PPV 51.7% NPV 87.8%, meaning that 51.7% of patients with chemerin levels >43 ng/mL have or will have preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

The NLR may help predict maternal-fetal complications in SLE pregnancy, constituting a marker of subclinical inflammation. Chemerin levels may be associated with preeclampsia. These biomarkers could improve the care of SLE patients with timely intervention of potential complications during pregnancy.

A Comprehensive Literature Review on Managing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Addressing Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Females and Its Autoimmune Disease Associations

This review aimed to evaluate the mechanism of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, particularly in the female population, and emphasize the need for early management interventions; explore the association between SLE and two autoimmune diseases, myasthenia gravis (MG) and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS), and their management strategies; and evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in managing SLE, focusing on premenopausal females, females of childbearing age, and pregnant patients. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to achieve these objectives using various databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane. The collected data were analyzed and synthesized to provide an evidence-based overview of SLE, its management strategies as an independent disease, and some disease associations. The treatment should be focused on remission, preventing organ damage, and improving the overall quality of life (QOL). Extensive emphasis should also be focused on diagnosing SLE and concurrent underlying secondary diseases timely and managing them appropriately.

[Update on pregnancy in inflammatory rheumatic diseases]

Women with rheumatic diseases should receive pre-pregnancy counselling to plan their pregnancy based on their individual risk profile. Low-dose aspirin is highly valued in the prevention of pre-eclampsia and is recommended for any lupus patient. In women with rheumatoid arthritis treated with bDMARDs, continuation during pregnancy should be considered to reduce the risk of disease relapse and adverse pregnancy outcomes. NSAIDs should be discontinued after the 20th week of pregnancy if possible. In SLE pregnancies, a lower glucocorticoid dose (6.5-10 mg/day) than previously thought is associated with preterm birth. HCQ therapy in pregnancy offers a benefit that clearly goes beyond mere disease control and should be emphasized accordingly in counselling. The use of HCQ is recommended for all SS-A-positive women from the 10th week of pregnancy at the latest, especially in the case of previous cAVB. Continuation of belimumab during pregnancy should be decided on an individual basis.Stable disease under pregnancy-compatible medication is one of the most important predictive factors for a good pregnancy outcome. Current recommendations should be considered in individual counselling.

Importance of family planning in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: A multidisciplinary approach

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Family planning in women with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases is a challenge for healthcare teams, highlighting the need for standardized available evidence to provide patients with objective and agreed information. This study reflects the work performed by a multidisciplinary team in reviewing available scientific evidence, and the strategy agreed for family planning, pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted, information was structured across the different stages (preconception, pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding), and an on-site meeting was convened, in which patients and healthcare providers participated.

RESULTS

Specific materials, which are included in this work, were developed to guide clinical decisions to be agreed upon by patients and healthcare providers.

CONCLUSION

These materials meet the need for validated and updated information on the approach and use of indicated drugs for professionals responsible for the management of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Management in Pregnancy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects reproductive aged women. Issues regarding family planning are an important part of SLE patient care. Women with SLE can flare during pregnancy, in particular those who have active disease at conception or prior history of renal disease. These flares can lead to increased adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal loss, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and small for gestational aged infants. In addition, women with antiphospholipid antibodies can have thrombosis during pregnancy or higher rates of fetal loss. Women who have anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies need special monitoring as their offspring are at risk for congenital complete heart block and neonatal lupus. Ideally, SLE patients should have their disease under good control on medications compatible with pregnancy prior to conception. All patients with SLE should remain on hydroxychloroquine unless contraindicated. We recommend the addition of 81mg/d of aspirin at the end of the first trimester to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. The immunosuppressive azathioprine, tacrolimus and cyclosporine are compatible with pregnancy and lactation, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)/mycophenolic acid are not. Providers should use glucocorticoids at the lowest possible dose. Methotrexate, leflunomide and cyclophosphamide are contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation. SLE patients on the biologics rituximab, belimumab and abatacept can continue these medications until conception and resume during lactation.

Hydroxychloroquine in systemic lupus erythematosus: overview of current knowledge

The antimalarial hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has demonstrated several crucial properties for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, we reviewed the main HCQ pharmacologic features, detailed its mechanism of action, and summarized the existing guidelines and recommendations for HCQ use in rheumatology with a systematic literature search for the randomized controlled trials focused on lupus. HCQ has been shown to decrease SLE activity, especially in mild and moderate disease, to prevent disease flare and to lower the long-term glucocorticoid need. The numerous benefits of HCQ are extended to pregnancy and breastfeeding period. Based on cohort studies, antithrombotic and metabolic HCQ’s effects were shown, including lipid-lowering properties, which might contribute to an improved cardiovascular risk. Moreover, early HCQ use in antinuclear antibodies positive individuals might delay the progression to SLE. Finally, HCQ has a significant favorable impact on long-term outcomes such as damage accrual and mortality in SLE. Based on these multiple benefits, HCQ is now the mainstay long-term treatment in SLE, recommended by current guidelines in all patients unless contraindications or side effects. The daily dose associated with the best compromise between efficacy and safety is matter of debate. The concern regarding retinal toxicity rather than proper efficacy data is the one that dictated the daily dosage of ⩽5 mg/kg/day actual body weight currently agreed upon.

Pregnancy and systemic lupus erythematosus in Spain: Has anything changed in the 21st century?

OBJECTIVE

To analyse a cohort of pregnant patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and compare the outcomes of both the disease and pregnancy with the results of previous studies conducted in the same geographical area.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of 37 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (64 pregnancies) followed in a multidisciplinary unit. Comparative study with similar Spanish studies identified after literature search.

RESULTS

Our cohort was characterized by an older age and by the presence of non-Caucasian patients. Although we found no clinical differences, from the serological point of view our cohort presented a higher frequency of antiphospholipid antibodies. Patients included in this study were treated more frequently with antimalarials and low-dose aspirin. Systemic lupus erythematosus flare frequency was very similar between the different studies, and we did not identify clear predictors for them. Although the rate of live births was similar among studies, the obstetric outcome of our series was better with a very low rate of preeclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight newborn. The only predictor of adverse obstetric event was age.

CONCLUSIONS

Although changes in the therapeutic attitude and planning of pregnancy in recent years have not had a direct impact on the rate of systemic lupus erythematosus flares during pregnancy, they have meant an improvement in the obstetric results. The introduction of new variables independent of the disease such as age at conception, socio-cultural origin, or the availability of multidisciplinary units should be considered in the results of future studies.

[State of the art: fertility and pregnancy in rheumatic diseases]

Inflammatory rheumatic diseases often affect women of childbearing age, for whom pregnancy is still associated with increased risks. At the same time, we are gaining more and more insights into risk factors and preventive strategies, enabling almost all women to have successful pregnancies with few adverse outcomes. The cornerstones are planning of the pregnancy under effective disease control and the modification of individual risk factors. Hydroxychloroquine is once again coming into focus as a compound with multiple positive effects. Recommendations published by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) provide a practical overview of the evidence. Based on the current state of knowledge, rheumatologists can make a lasting contribution to a positive pregnancy outcome for mother and child.

Impact of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus on Pregnancy: Analysis of a Large 10-Year Longitudinal Mexican Cohort

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is considered a high risk one since it is associated with a higher rate of maternal-fetal complications compared with the pregnancies in healthy women.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to describe the maternal-fetal outcomes in a cohort of Mexican patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and to identify risk factors associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cohort of pregnant lupus patients was analyzed. Maternal-fetal complications were described, and clinical, biochemical, and immunological variables associated with obstetric adverse outcomes were studied. Descriptive statistics, comparison of variables using appropriate tests, and finally logistic regression analysis were performed to identify potential risk factors for adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 351 pregnancies were included in a 10-year period. The most frequently observed maternal adverse outcomes were lupus flare (35%) and preeclampsia (14.5%). Active lupus before pregnancy (hazards ratio [HR], 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-12.5; p = 0.003) was a predictor for these complications, whereas the use of antimalarial drugs (HR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.2-0.7; p = 0.007) was a protective factor. The most frequent fetal adverse outcomes were preterm birth (38.1%), miscarriages (10%), and low birth weight babies (28%), and very low birth weight newborns (11%). Proteinuria in early pregnancy (HR, 7.1; 95% CI, 1.01-50.3; p = 0.04) and preeclampsia (HR, 9.3; 95% CI, 1.7-49.7; p = 0.009) were risk factors associated with these complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Variables related to systemic lupus erythematosus activity predict an adverse maternal outcome, whereas proteinuria in early pregnancy and preeclampsia are associated with an adverse fetal outcome.

Hydroxychloroquine in systemic and autoimmune diseases: Where are we now?

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), one of the oldest drugs used in rheumatology, came recently into attention as one of the potential therapies tested for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 disease treatment. Used initially as an antimalarial, then translated to rheumatic diseases, HCQ has been used in a wide range of pathologies, including infectious diseases, immune disorders, diabetes, dyslipidemia, or neoplasia. Regarding systemic diseases, HCQ is the mainstay treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), where, according to last European guidelines, it is proposed to all SLE patients unless contraindicated or with side effects. HCQ proved positive impact in SLE on robust outcomes, such as accrual damage, disease activity and survival, but also pleiomorphic effects, including decrease in the need for glucocorticoids, reduction in the risk of neonatal lupus, lower fasting glucose and protection against diabetes, thrombotic risk, dyslipidemia, infections, etc. Moreover, HCQ can be used during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Besides SLE, the role for HCQ in the anti-phospholipid syndrome and Sjögren's disease is still under debate. On the contrary, recent advances showed only limited interest for rheumatoid arthritis, especially due the lack of structural damage prevention. There are still no strong data to sustain the HCQ use in other systemic diseases. In this review, we summarised the utility and efficacy of HCQ in different clinical conditions relevant for rheumatology practice.

Importance of family planning in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: a multidisciplinary approach

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Family planning in women with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases is a challenge for healthcare teams, highlighting the need for standardized available evidence to provide patients with objective and agreed information. This study reflects the work performed by a multidisciplinary team in reviewing available scientific evidence, and the strategy agreed for family planning, pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted, information was structured across the different stages (preconception, pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding), and an on-site meeting was convened, in which patients and healthcare providers participated.

RESULTS

Specific materials, which are included in this work, were developed to guide clinical decisions to be agreed upon by patients and healthcare providers.

CONCLUSION

These materials meet the need for validated and updated information on the approach and use of indicated drugs for professionals responsible for the management of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Pregnancy and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Spain: Has Anything Changed in the 21st Century?

OBJECTIVE

To analyse a cohort of pregnant patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and compare the outcomes of both the disease and pregnancy with the results of previous studies conducted in the same geographical area.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of 37 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (64 pregnancies) followed in a multidisciplinary unit. Comparative study with similar Spanish studies identified after literature search.

RESULTS

Our cohort was characterized by an older age and by the presence of non-Caucasian patients. Although we found no clinical differences, from the serological point of view our cohort presented a higher frequency of antiphospholipid antibodies. Patients included in this study were treated more frequently with antimalarials and low-dose aspirin. Systemic lupus erythematosus flare frequency was very similar between the different studies, and we did not identify clear predictors for them. Although the rate of live births was similar among studies, the obstetric outcome of our series was better with a very low rate of preeclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight newborn. The only predictor of adverse obstetric event was age.

CONCLUSIONS

Although changes in the therapeutic attitude and planning of pregnancy in recent years have not had a direct impact on the rate of systemic lupus erythematosus flares during pregnancy, they have meant an improvement in the obstetric results. The introduction of new variables independent of the disease such as age at conception, socio-cultural origin, or the availability of multidisciplinary units should be considered in the results of future studies.

Update on antimalarials and systemic lupus erythematosus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is highlighting the most recent evidence on the clinical efficacy and toxicity of antimalarials in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

RECENT FINDINGS

New data confirm the effects of antimalarials in preventing SLE activity, damage and infections and in decreasing mortality. An important reduction in use of health resources is related to continued antimalarial use. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) may prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women with SLE. HCQ ocular toxicity is infrequent and could be associated with blood levels. Gastrointestinal and skin toxicity are underrecognized and could influence adherence. Prolongation of QT interval is extremely unusual with HCQ. Doses of HCQ of 200 mg/day seem to offer a good efficacy/toxicity balance. HCQ protection against herpes zoster and Pneumocystis jirovecii infection has been shown. On the contrary, HCQ prescription by doctors and adherence by patients are both under recommended standards. The recent coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has resulted in a significant shortage of HCQ in many countries with possible consequences in the correct treatment of lupus patients.

SUMMARY

Recent evidence reinforces the central role of HCQ in SLE therapy. The reduction in activity, damage accrual and mortality is consistent across studies, countries and ethnical groups. On the contrary, and despite the well established beneficial effects of prolonged regular HCQ therapy, many SLE patients do never take this drug or it is eventually stopped in the setting of severe flares, pregnancy or presumed toxicity. Every effort must be made to assure the correct prescription of HCQ and not to withdraw the drug unless unequivocal signs of toxicity are present.