C4 deficiency state in antiphospholipid antibody-related recurrent preeclampsia evolving into systemic lupus erythematosus.

The case of an apparent healthy woman who developed recurrent preeclampsia with antiphospholipid antibodies and evolved towards systemic lupus erythematosus during her last pregnancy is presented. The diagnostic dilemma between lupus renal flare and toxemia is discussed. The potential role of immunological alterations, such as complement genetic deficiencies, in women with primary antiphospholipid syndrome who develop systemic lupus erythematosus is also discussed.