Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus: Two Case Reports in a Single Centre

Neonatal lupus erythematous (NLE) is a rare autoimmune mediated disease that is associated with transplacental autoantibodies. It is characterised by cutaneous manifestations and may involve cardiac, haematologic, neurologic and hepatic abnormalities. We describe two cases with clinical, pathological and immunological findings compatible with neonatal lupus erythematosus, treatment and progress. Both their mothers were asymptomatic but were found to have autoantibodies. In view of the possible serious complications such as complete heart block, a high index of suspicion coupled with a thorough evaluation of both child and mother is required.

Keywords: Neonatal lupus erythematosus; antinuclear antibody (ANA); auto antibodies; anti-Ro; anti-La.