Systemic lupus erythematosus and pregnancy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Prognosis of SLE pregnancy has dramatically improved with the advent in therapeutic management of SLE and in the obstetric core. Consequently, pregnancy is possible in SLE patients when the disease is inactive for at least 6 months. Because of the risk of lupus flare and obstetrical complications (fetal loss, preterm birth, intrauterine growth retardation, preeclampsia), a multidisciplinary approach, associating medical and obstetrical teams, is required. Corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine and azathioprine are safe in pregnancy and should be kept when necessary.