Umbilical artery blood flow velocity in pregnancies complicated by systemic lupus erythematosus

Purpose. We evaluated the role of umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry in the surveillance of pregnancies complicated by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods. We retrospectively studied 56 women with SLE whose pregnancies were managed at our perinatal center between 1988 and 1995. Results. Absent or reversed end-diastolic flow velocity was detected in 6 (11%) of 56 patients. This subgroup of patients had an increased risk of preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, cesarean section, and preterm delivery. Conclusions. A high incidence (11%) of abnormal umbilical artery waveforms was detected. This finding was associated with an increased risk of maternal and fetal complications.