Which antibodies are linked to neonatal lupus?

Neonatal lupus erythematosus is primarily associated with maternal autoantibodies, particularly anti-Ro (also known as anti-SSA) and anti-La (also known as anti-SSB) antibodies. These antibodies can cross the placenta, leading to issues in the developing fetus and newborn, such as skin rashes and, in some cases, cardiac abnormalities.

The link between anti-Ro/SSA antibodies and neonatal lupus is well-established, as these antibodies are commonly found in mothers of affected infants. In contrast, other antibodies listed, such as anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies, are more specifically associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and are typically not implicated in neonatal lupus. Anti-histone antibodies are primarily associated with drug-induced lupus, and anti-centromere antibodies are linked to limited scleroderma. Thus, they do not play a significant role in the pathogenesis of neonatal lupus.

In summary, the presence of anti-Ro/SSA and/or anti-La/SSB antibodies is critical in understanding and diagnosing conditions related to neonatal lupus due to their ability to affect the fetus when transferred from the mother.