Crohn's disease and pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Obstetrics & Gynecology

Background:

• Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.
• Pregnancy onset of Crohn's disease is exceptionally rare, with few documented cases.
• The disease's progression during pregnancy poses unique challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two new cases of Crohn's disease manifesting during pregnancy.
• To review existing literature on pregnancy-onset Crohn's disease.
• To analyze the risks and management of this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients with new-onset Crohn's disease during pregnancy.
• Literature review of English-language publications on Crohn's disease presenting during pregnancy.
• Analysis of outcomes including surgical intervention and infant mortality.

Main Results:

• Two new cases were identified, adding to the eight previously reported cases, totaling 10.
• Six of the 10 cases required surgery during or shortly after pregnancy.
• Eleven infants were born from these 10 pregnancies, with six infant deaths.

Conclusions:

• Pregnancy-onset Crohn's disease is a rare but serious condition.
• There is an elevated risk to both the mother and the infant.
• Close monitoring and potential surgical intervention are critical for managing this condition during pregnancy.