In VitroFertilization in 37 Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Series of 97 Procedures

Abstract

Objective.To compile and assess data about complication and success rates forin vitrofertilization (IVF) of women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and/or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). To date, such data are sparse.Methods.This retrospective study described women with SLE and/or APS who have had at least 1 IVF cycle.Results.Thirty-seven women with SLE (n = 23, including 8 with antiphospholipid antibodies), SLE with APS (n = 4), or primary APS (n = 10) underwent 97 IVF procedures. For 43% of cases, the infertility was female in origin, for 19% male, 14% mixed, and 24% unexplained. No women had premature ovarian insufficiency because of cyclophosphamide. Median age at IVF was 34 years (range 26–46). The median number of IVF cycles was 2.6 (1–8). Patients were treated with hydroxychloroquine (72%), steroids (70%), azathioprine (3%), aspirin (92%), and/or low molecular weight heparin (62%). There were 27 (28%) pregnancies, 23 live births among 26 neonates (3 twin pregnancies), 2 miscarriages, and 2 terminations for trisomy 13 and 21. Six spontaneous pregnancies occurred during the followup. Finally, 26 women (70%) delivered at least 1 healthy child. Complications occurred in or after 8 IVF cycles (8%): SLE flares in 4 (polyarthritis in 3 and lupus enteritis in 1) and thromboembolic events in 4 others. One SLE flare was the first sign of previously undiagnosed SLE. Poor treatment adherence was obvious in 2 other flares and 2 thromboses. No ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was reported.Conclusion.These preliminary results confirm that IVF can be safely and successfully performed in women with SLE and/or APS.