CLINICAL AND LABORATORY FEATURES OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE: IMPLICATIONS FOR PREGNANCY OUTCOMES

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition that mostly affects women of reproductive age. SLE poses significant challenges during pregnancy due to its relapsing course and potential involvement of vital organs such as the kidneys, increasing the risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus. Careful disease control and laboratory monitoring are essential to improve outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory characteristics of SLE patients of reproductive age and analyze their implications for pregnancy planning and maternal–fetal outcomes. This study was conducted using medical records of 54 patients with a mean age of 35.2 ± 8.9 years who were diagnosed with SLE according to the 2019 American College of Rheumatology criteria. Patients were treated at the Tashkent State Medical University Multidisciplinary Clinic between October 2024 and February 2025. To determine disease activity and organ involvement, hematological, inflammatory, renal, and immunological laboratory parameters were examined. The majority of patients were of reproductive age. Laboratory findings frequently demonstrated hematological abnormalities, elevated inflammatory markers, and varying degrees of renal involvement. Increased risk factors for pregnancy complications, such as hypertension and proteinuria, were associated with markers of active disease. SLE in women of reproductive age requires strict laboratory monitoring and disease control, particularly prior to conception. The presence of immunological markers such as anti-dsDNA and antiphospholipid antibodies suggested a higher risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Early detection of immunological risk factors and active disease can improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce maternal and fetal complications.