Pregnancy and Takayasu arteritis: case-based review
Nirvana Bharuthram1, Mohammed Tikly2
1Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. nirvana.bharuthram@gmail.com.
Rheumatology International
|December 21, 2019
Summary
Pregnancy in Takayasu arteritis (TA) presents challenges, but outcomes for mothers and infants in sub-Saharan Africa are often good. Early diagnosis of TA during pregnancy is crucial, especially in resource-limited settings.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare large vessel vasculitis affecting women of childbearing age.
- Managing pregnant patients with TA is complex due to potential cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications.
Observation:
- This study analyzes 16 pregnancies in 15 patients with TA from sub-Saharan Africa, including two new cases.
- Seven patients had Type V TA (aorta involvement); four were diagnosed during pregnancy.
- Pregnancy complications included disease flares, hypertension, preterm delivery, and cesarean sections.
Findings:
- One maternal death occurred due to pre-eclampsia.
- Intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight infants were observed.
- Despite challenges, maternal and fetal outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa were generally favorable, mirroring international data.
Implications:
- Diagnosis of TA during pregnancy highlights healthcare access issues in resource-constrained regions.
- Effective management strategies are essential for improving outcomes in pregnant women with TA.
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