Neonatal lupus erythematosus manifested as a complete heart block: A case report

Key Clinical Message Fetal bradycardia and congenital complete heart block could be the presentation of neonatal lupus. A high index of suspicion of this condition helps to identify an asymptomatic mother. Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is a rare acquired autoimmune disease of newborns due to placental transfer of Ro/SSA or La/SSB autoantibodies. Though cardiac, cutaneous, hematological, and hepatobiliary abnormalities are detected, cardiac defects cause significant morbidity and mortality. We report a case of complete congenital heart block due to NLE. The electrocardiograph of the baby showing a heart rate of 54 beats/min and features of complete heart block.