Pericardial Diseases in Pregnancy.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Obstetrics
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Pericardial effusion is the most frequent pericardial disease manifestation in pregnancy.
• This condition is typically benign, mild to moderate, and resolves spontaneously postpartum without specific intervention.
• Acute pericarditis is the second most common pericardial condition during pregnancy, often necessitating medical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the clinical presentation and management of pericardial diseases in pregnancy.
• To provide guidance on the safe use of medications for pericardial conditions during pregnancy and lactation.
• To emphasize the importance of pre-pregnancy counseling and multidisciplinary care for affected women.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on pericardial diseases in pregnancy.
• Analysis of current treatment guidelines for pericarditis during gestation.
• Discussion of pharmacological options and their safety profiles in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Main Results:

• Pericardial effusion is common, well-tolerated, and self-limiting in pregnancy.
• Acute pericarditis is less common but may require treatment with NSAIDs (up to 20 weeks) or low-dose prednisone.
• Colchicine is safe for use throughout pregnancy and lactation to prevent recurrent pericarditis.

Conclusions:

• Pericardial effusion requires no specific treatment during pregnancy.
• Careful selection and monitoring of medications are crucial for managing acute pericarditis in pregnant and lactating women.
• Pre-pregnancy counseling and continuous multidisciplinary follow-up are essential for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes in women with pericardial diseases.