Neonatal Lupus

Neonatal lupus occurs when autoantibodies are transmitted from the mother to the fetus; it usually manifests as a transient and mild lupoid rash which lasts 3-6 months, but can also result in more serious manifestations such as congenital heart block, immune thrombocytopenia, cholestatic liver disease, or autoimmune hemolytic anemia.  The autoantibodies anti-Ro (SSA) and anti-La (SSB) (also seen in Sjogren's Syndrome) are the culprits here; they are present in about 30% of SLE patients.