[Neonatal lupus erythematosus and neurologic involvement: an incidental association?]

Abstract

Neonatal lupus erythematosus is a rare disorder characterized by cutaneous lesions of the face and/or congenital heart block. The transplacental transfer of maternal anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB, or anti-U1RNP antibodies is responsible for the development of the disease. Few cases of neonatal lupus erythematosus with neurological involvement were reported in the medical literature.

Case report: A 36-week GA female infant presented with neonatal lupus erythematosus comprising cutaneous, hematologic and hepatic disorders with a favorable outcome. However, cutaneous atrophy and hyperpigmentation persisted. Spastic paraparesis was diagnosed at the age of six months.

Conclusion: The neurological lesions in neonatal lupus erythematosus could either be related to the presence of anti-Ro/SSA antibodies of maternal origin, or of anticardiolipin antibodies.