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Myasthenia gravis and pregnancy
G J Daskalakis1, I S Papageorgiou, N D Petrogiannis
1First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Athens, Alexandra Maternity Hospital, 80 Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens, Greece.
Summary
Pregnancy in women with myasthenia gravis (MG) presents varied outcomes. While one woman had a healthy full-term delivery, another experienced preterm births, congenital anomalies, and neonatal deaths due to MG complications.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neurology
- Neonatology
Background:
- Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease.
- Pregnancy in women with MG requires careful management due to potential maternal and fetal complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present case studies of pregnancies in women diagnosed with myasthenia gravis.
- To highlight the spectrum of pregnancy outcomes and associated challenges in MG patients.
Main Methods:
- Case report analysis of three pregnancies in two women with a confirmed diagnosis of myasthenia gravis.
- Review of antenatal, delivery, and neonatal outcomes, including complications and congenital anomalies.
Main Results:
- One woman with MG had an uncomplicated full-term pregnancy and delivery via caesarean section due to prior surgery.
- The second woman experienced two preterm births complicated by hydramnios; her first neonate died due to congenital anomalies, and her second neonate died from respiratory failure following an MG exacerbation.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy outcomes in women with myasthenia gravis can be highly variable.
- Careful monitoring and management are crucial to mitigate risks such as preterm birth, congenital anomalies, and neonatal respiratory complications in pregnancies affected by MG.