Hematologic malignancies during pregnancy

Most hematologic malignancies are rare during the childbearing years with the exception of Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, the continued spread of retroviruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus, in the heterosexual population may result in a substantial rise in viral-induced non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Although pregnancy does not affect the natural course of these illnesses, adequate staging and therapy can be a difficult task. The obstetrician and the consultant hematologist/oncologist must weigh the benefit of immediate treatment while minimizing toxicity to the fetus.