Neurofibromatosis and pregnancy. An update

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background:

• Neurofibromatosis is a common genetic disorder.
• Pregnancy in affected individuals is infrequent, with limited data from case reports.
• Existing literature lacks comprehensive series on neurofibromatosis and pregnancy outcomes.

Observation:

• This study analyzed 34 pregnancies in nine neurofibromatosis patients.
• Fertility appears unaffected in patients with neurofibromatosis.
• A significant number of adverse pregnancy outcomes were noted.

Findings:

• High incidence of first-trimester spontaneous abortions (20.7%).
• Elevated rates of stillbirths (8.7%) and intrauterine growth retardation (13.0%).
• A notable rate of cesarean sections (26%) was observed.

Implications:

• Pregnant neurofibromatosis patients are a high-risk group requiring specialized care.
• Life-threatening complications can arise during pregnancy.
• Antenatal surveillance is crucial for safe delivery outcomes beyond the first trimester.