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Published on: November 20, 2015
Peripheral nerve disease in pregnancy
1Department of Neurology, Division of Women's Neurology, Neurology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magee Women's Hospital of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA. kleinam2@upmc.edu
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
|April 9, 2013
Summary
Pregnancy and postpartum neuropathies, like Bell's palsy and carpal tunnel syndrome, are common due to compression. While often reversible, persistent symptoms may require further investigation and management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Obstetrics
- Nerve Health
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathies are common during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
- Compression from pregnancy and childbirth is the primary cause.
- Bell's palsy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and lower extremity neuropathies are most frequent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the common neuropathies encountered in pregnancy and postpartum.
- To discuss diagnostic considerations and management strategies.
- To highlight potential associations with preeclampsia and underlying conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of common neuropathies in pregnancy.
- Discussion of diagnostic criteria and imaging utility.
- Analysis of management and follow-up recommendations.
Main Results:
- Most pregnancy-related neuropathies are reversible.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, Bell's palsy, and lower extremity neuropathies are prevalent.
- Nerve conduction studies and imaging are reserved for unusual or prolonged cases.
Conclusions:
- Neuropathies during pregnancy and postpartum are typically compression-related and often resolve.
- Persistent or atypical symptoms warrant further evaluation for underlying causes like preeclampsia.
- Close follow-up is essential as some neuropathies may persist.
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