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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
09:41
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
The Brazilian database on pregnancy in multiple sclerosis.
A Finkelsztejn1, Y D Fragoso, M L B Ferreira
1HC de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|December 17, 2010
Summary
Pregnancy in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in Brazil showed a decreased relapse rate during gestation. Most women experienced successful obstetric and neonatal outcomes, despite high medication exposure.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Clinical Epidemiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting young adults.
- Pregnancy outcomes in women with MS are of significant clinical interest.
- Understanding the impact of MS on pregnancy and vice versa is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze data from a Brazilian database concerning multiple sclerosis (MS) and pregnancy.
- To evaluate pregnancy outcomes, relapse rates, and medication exposure in Brazilian MS patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective data collection from Brazilian MS patients who experienced pregnancy.
- Data compiled into a dedicated Brazilian database.
- Inclusion of patient demographics, disease characteristics (EDSS, relapse rate), and medication exposure.
Main Results:
- Data from 128 women (142 pregnancies) across Brazil were analyzed.
- Average age at pregnancy was 29.8 years, with low disability (EDSS 1.5±1.4).
- High medication exposure (69.7%), including interferon beta (48.6%) and glatiramer acetate (14.1%).
- Significant reduction in relapse rate during pregnancy.
- Low complication rates: 4.9% obstetric and 1.4% neonatal unfavorable outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Brazilian MS patients in the study had low disability and disease duration.
- High medication use was observed during pregnancy.
- Pregnancy in MS patients was associated with a decreased relapse rate and successful obstetric/neonatal outcomes in over 90% of cases.
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