Frequency of Neuro-Psychiatric Dysfunction in Anti-SSA/SSB Exposed Children With and Without Neonatal Lupus

The study evaluated neuro-psychiatric dysfunction and general health in 104 anti-Ro exposed children (33 with cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus, 20 with rash, and 51 unaffected siblings) compared to 22 healthy controls. The mean age was 14.5 years. Neuro-psychiatric disorders were reported in 40% of anti-Ro exposed children versus 27% of controls, but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.34). Attention problems were noted in 24% of children with congenital heart block, 20% with rash, and 18% of unaffected siblings, compared to 5% of controls, with no significant difference (p = 0.120). Behavioral, developmental, and other health issues showed no significant differences between groups. Autoimmune diseases were present in some children across all groups. Parental reporting of neuro-psychiatric issues was high in anti-Ro exposed children, but medication use was limited and differences from controls were not significant.