Systemic lupus erythematosus, repeated abortions, and thrombocytopenia.

Abstract
Severe thrombocytopenia in a pregnant patient with mild SLE [systemic lupus erythematosus] is described. Previous pregnancies (3) had ended in abortion. Attempts to reverse the thrombocytopenia with steroids, plasmapheresis and splenectomy failed, the platelet count returning to normal immediately after the death of the fetus at 20 wk gestation.