Lupus & antiphospholipid syndrome
Serum BAFF levels in pregnant patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors' conclusion
This study found elevated BAFF levels in the first trimester of pregnancy were associated with subsequent development of preeclampsia.
Study context
- Population
- Pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other rheumatic diseases enrolled before 30 weeks gestation with known pregnancy outcome408 samples
- Participants
- 230 women
- Exposure
- SLE pregnancies with vs without preeclampsia; BAFF levels across trimesters
- Outcome
- Association of BAFF levels with preeclampsia
- Follow-up
- First trimester
Methodological detailsPreeclampsia determined by chart review and consensus among 6 providers
- Preeclampsia determined by chart review and consensus among 6 providers
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
First-trimester BAFF level, SLE
P = 0.007
- Preeclampsia per 100-unit increase in first-trimester BAFF, SLE (AOR, adjusted for age, obesity, maternal race)
- 1.19 (95% CI 1.05, 1.36)
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
BAFF level by trimester
- Median BAFF significantly higher in 1st trimester vs 2nd and 3rd
- P = 0.002
Elevated BAFF in SLE: dsDNA and LN
- More likely elevated dsDNA; not more likely LN during pregnancy
Original publication
Serum BAFF levels in pregnant patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus. Published 22 January 2026. doi:10.
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