An Update: Myasthenia Gravis and Pregnancy

Johanna Hamel; Emma Ciafaloni

doi:10.1016/j.ncl.2018.01.005

An Update: Myasthenia Gravis and Pregnancy

Neurol Clin. 2018 May;36(2):355-365. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2018.01.005.

Authors

Johanna Hamel¹, Emma Ciafaloni²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, University of Rochester Medical Center, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. Electronic address: Johanna_hamel@urmc.rochester.edu.
² University of Rochester Medical Center, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, PO Box 673, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.

PMID: 29655454
DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2018.01.005

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis presents a risk factor for pregnancy and delivery, and can affect the newborn. In return, pregnancy can affect the course of myasthenia and worsen the disease during pregnancy requiring treatment modifications. Treatment optimization and drug safety should be addressed before conception. Delivery is complicated by prolonged labor. Newborns can develop neonatal myasthenia gravis, a treatable and transient disease. Patients should not be discouraged to become pregnant, but provided with supportive counseling, planning, and monitoring in a multidisciplinary team involving obstetrician, anesthesiologist, pediatrician, and neurologist. Pregnancy outcome is favorable in women who receive treatment and expert care.

Keywords: Arthrogryposis; Myasthenia gravis; Neonatal myasthenia gravis; Pregnancy.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Adult
Female
Humans
Infant, Newborn
Myasthenia Gravis*
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Complications*
Risk Factors