A new study found that both lupus anticoagulant (LA) and anti-β2 glycoprotein I (β2GPI) IgG/IgM antibodies had predictive value for adverse pregnancy outcomes and complications, specifically early-onset pre-eclampsia and intrauterine fetal death, in healthy, pregnant women.

The study, which examined the pregnancies of 1,237 women, excluded those taking heparin (blood thinners) or with a prior diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Researchers tested numerous blood markers associated with pregnancy complications, including LA, anticardiolipin antibodies, β2GPI, and anti-prothrombin antibodies, as well as protein S and Factor XII, which are both involved in blood clotting. 

Logistic regression analysis revealed that lupus anticoagulant and anti-β2 glycoprotein I antibodies were both valid predictors of early-onset preeclampsia and intrauterine fetal death. Additionally, LA also had predictive value in identifying  small-for-gestational-age infants. These findings suggest that these markers may also be of clinical relevance in obstetric APS.  

Research like this can pave the road to guiding more personalized care and improving pregnancy outcomes for women at risk of developing APS and other complications associated with pregnancy. Learn more about lupus and pregnancy..

Read the study