The obstetric perspective of neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis is a complex hereditary disease involving many organs and systems. A possibility of reciprocal adverse effects exists between the disease and pregnancy. A survey of the relevant literature suggests that management of the pregnant patient with neurofibromatosis is an obstetric challenge. After appropriate genetic counseling, patients with minimal or mild neurofibromatosis who wish to conceive should receive high-risk pregnancy care. Special attention should be directed toward maternal hypertension and the aggravating features of neurofibromatosis. The fetus may inherit the disease and also be at risk for growth retardation. Patients with severe neurofibromatosis should be advised not to conceive.