Neonatal Lupus treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Neonatal Lupus treatment

Recommended health tests for Neonatal Lupus

At-Home Lab Test

Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device

Connective tissue test

$ 300

At-Home Lab Test

Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device

ENA test

$ 300

Shop all tests

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Neonatal Lupus

Neonatal Lupus is a rare but serious condition that affects newborns, often characterized by a temporary rash that may appear shortly after birth. It's not lupus as known in adults, but it's caused by certain antibodies transferred from the mother to the baby during pregnancy. Though this condition is relatively rare, affecting about 1 in 20,000 births, its implications on the infant's health call for a broader understanding and awareness among expectant parents and healthcare providers alike.

Causes

Neonatal Lupus is primarily caused by the mother's autoantibodies, specifically anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La, which cross the placenta and affect the fetus. These autoantibodies are present in mothers with autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or Sjögren's syndrome. However, it's important to note that not all babies born to mothers with these antibodies will develop Neonatal Lupus.

Signs and symptoms

- Skin rash, often appearing in the first few weeks of life, primarily on areas exposed to sunlight - Low blood cell counts, which may lead to anemia - Liver problems, resulting in elevated liver enzymes - Heart conduction abnormalities, the most serious symptom that could lead to a condition called heart block

Diagnosing Neonatal Lupus

Diagnosing Neonatal Lupus requires a multifaceted approach due to its varied symptoms. Initially, the presence of the characteristic rash might prompt further investigations. Pediatricians will likely recommend blood tests to detect the specific autoantibodies (anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La) in the baby's system. Furthermore, if there’s any concern regarding heart abnormalities, an echocardiogram may be performed to examine the baby’s heart function in detail. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial, especially to manage and monitor heart-related symptoms.

Prevention and natural treatment

Prevention of Neonatal Lupus revolves significantly around close monitoring and management of expectant mothers who are known to have SLE or other related autoimmune disorders. Pregnant women with these antibodies should undergo regular fetal heart monitoring and consultations with a specialist to detect any early signs of heart block in the fetus. The treatment of Neonatal Lupus, especially regarding its skin manifestations and mild symptoms, often involves supportive care and management. The rash typically resolves on its own within six months as the mother’s antibodies are naturally cleared from the baby's circulation. In cases of heart block, treatment may require a pacemaker, and close cardiac follow-up through infancy and beyond is essential. In embracing functional medicine, a holistic approach focusing on the overall health of the mother during pregnancy plays a supportive role. This might include optimizing maternal health through nutrition, stress management, and possibly addressing gut health to modulate immune function. It’s important to note, however, that these approaches do not replace traditional medical treatments but may support the overall well-being of both mother and child. While there is no current cure for Neonatal Lupus, understanding its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments is vital for early detection and management, ensuring better health outcomes for affected infants.

Learn more