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Scleroderma in pregnancy
K A Chin1, C M Kaseba, J B Weaver
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Birmingham Womens Hospital, UK.
Summary
Pregnancy outcomes for women with scleroderma are often poor, with high rates of infertility, fetal growth issues, and maternal complications like Raynaud's phenomenon and esophageal tears. Close monitoring is crucial for these high-risk pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Rheumatology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease affecting connective tissue.
- Pregnancy in women with scleroderma presents unique challenges and risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze pregnancy outcomes in patients with scleroderma.
- To identify common obstetric complications and maternal issues in scleroderma patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of case records from four scleroderma patients.
- Data collected from Birmingham Women's Hospital between 1989 and 1994.
Main Results:
- Two patients experienced infertility.
- Two fetuses showed growth retardation; one intrauterine fetal death occurred.
- Three patients had worsening Raynaud's phenomenon; one developed massive hematemesis.
Conclusions:
- Scleroderma significantly impacts pregnancy, leading to adverse outcomes.
- Obstetric complications are frequent and necessitate vigilant patient monitoring.
- Management requires a multidisciplinary approach for high-risk pregnancies.