[Systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE] in pregnancy and severe nephritis [a case-report]]

ABSTRACT

Nephritis is one of the most dangerous presentations of SLE. Lupus in pregnancy can increase maternal and fetal mortality. In this report a pregnant woman with lupus nephritis is presented. A thirty year old woman in 30th week of pregnancy was admitted to internal medicine ward for evaluation of peripheral edema and hypertension. Important findings of her laboratory exam were azotemia, hematuria, proteinuria, anemia, large size kidneys, active urine sediment, pleural and pericardial effusion, ascites, high titer of ANA, anti double strand DNA and lupus anticoagulant. Renal biopsy was done, pulse of methyl prednisolon prescribed and hemodialysis was started. After delivery, pulse of cyclophosphamide was also given and her renal function improved. The patient had not history of rheumatologic disease and the first presentation of lupus was severe nephritis during pregnancy. Fortunately, the response of patient to the treatment was good. After about 3-years follow-up, patient's renal function is normal and her son seems healthy