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[Dysthyroid optic neuropathy in pregnancy]
Nippon Ganka Gakkai Zasshi
|July 12, 2014
Summary
Dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) is rare in pregnancy but occurred in three women with Graves' disease and high thyroid antibodies. Treatment with systemic steroids was initiated post-delivery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Thyroid eye disease (TED) is uncommon during pregnancy.
- This report details three cases of severe dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) in pregnant patients.
Observation:
- Three pregnant women diagnosed with Graves' disease developed DON.
- Visual acuity was significantly impaired in all affected eyes.
- Elevated thyroid antibody levels were noted in all patients, despite controlled thyroid function.
Findings:
- DON occurred between five and nine months of gestation.
- Systemic steroid therapy was administered post-delivery due to pregnancy constraints.
- All patients had Graves' disease and high levels of thyroid antibodies.
Implications:
- Pregnant women with Graves' disease and high thyroid antibodies are at risk for DON.
- Close collaboration between internists and obstetricians is crucial for managing DON during pregnancy.
- Systemic steroid therapy is a potential treatment option, administered post-delivery.
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