The long term outcomes of children born to mothers with Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE)

Gayed, Mary (2015). The long term outcomes of children born to mothers with Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE). University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

Introduction: Immunosuppressive agents are commonly used in Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE) during pregnancy, to ensure optimum outcome for both mother and child. However there is little literature regarding long term outcomes (LTO) of these children.

Aims: This pilot study aims to test the hypothesis that the mother’s medications taken during pregnancy and/or antibodies are associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in children born to mothers with lupus.

Methods: Women regularly attending specialist UK lupus clinics were identified and consented to take part in this study if they had children up to the age of 17 years born after the diagnosis of SLE. A standard questionnaire developed for this multi-centre study was used to collect the data.

Results: In total data were collected for 285 children born to 199 mothers. Neonatal rash, complete heart block or congenital anomalies were each reported in 2% of children, and developmental problems in 17/284(6%). Hospital management was required for infection in 25% (69/274) of children, the only significant risk factors identified were birth weight and maternal aspirin use which are likely to be surrogate markers for more severe maternal disease.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated reassuring LTO of children born to mothers with SLE.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):