Cutaneous Presentation in Neonatal Lupus, Don’t Miss Anything!
Loubaris Zineb *
Department of Dermatology, Mohamed V University of Rabat, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Morocco.
Moumna Rasha
Department of Dermatology, Mohamed V University of Rabat, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Morocco.
Benzekri Laila
Department of Dermatology, Mohamed V University of Rabat, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Morocco.
Meziane Mariame
Department of Dermatology, Mohamed V University of Rabat, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Morocco.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is a rare autoimmune condition resulting from the transplacental transfer of maternal autoantibodies, primarily anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La. The disease can manifest with cutaneous, cardiac, hematologic, and hepatobiliary involvement, with variable prognosis depending on the affected systems.
Case Presentation: We report the case of a 4-month-old female infant who developed erythematous, scaly annular patches on the face, scalp, trunk, and folds. The lesions were asymptomatic and had been present for a month. The infant's mother had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus treated with corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies, while cardiac evaluations were unremarkable. The diagnosis of NLE was established. The skin lesions improved with topical corticosteroids and strict sun protection.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering NLE in infants presenting with annular cutaneous lesions, especially in the context of maternal autoimmune disease. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and close monitoring are crucial to prevent complications, particularly cardiac involvement, which significantly affects prognosis.
Keywords: Neonatal lupus erythematosus, autoantibodies, cutaneous lesions, systemic lupus erythematosus, congenital heart block, anti-SSA/Ro, anti-SSB/La