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Benlghazi A, Messaoudi H, Belouad M, Bouhtouri Y, Benali S, Rachid AB, El Mangoub F, Elhassani MM, Kouach J. Myasthenia gravis and pregnancy: Lessons learned from a complex a case report. SAGE Open Med Case Rep 2024; 12:2050313X241253998. [PMID: 38764915 PMCID: PMC11100404 DOI: 10.1177/2050313x241253998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis primarily affects young adults, with a higher incidence in women, particularly between the ages of 20 and 30. When a young woman with myasthenia gravis contemplates pregnancy, healthcare providers must consider the potential implications. The interplay between hormonal factors and changes in the immune system establishes a complex relationship between myasthenia gravis and pregnancy. On one hand, pregnancy can alter the course of the disease, while on the other hand, the disease can impact the progression of the pregnancy and the well-being of the fetus. In this case report, we present the case of a 28-year-old woman suffering from myasthenia gravis who had undergone a thymectomy 5 years ago and was being treated with an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. After a planned conception, the patient presented a relapse of her disease during the third trimester of pregnancy, with the onset of severe hydramnios. This observation highlights a specific case of decompensation of myasthenia gravis during pregnancy, associated with the presence of severe hydramnios. Subsequently, we delve into the existing literature to examine the reciprocal influence between myasthenia gravis and pregnancy, as well as the effects of anti-myasthenic treatments on pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelhamid Benlghazi
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Hamza Messaoudi
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Moad Belouad
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Yassine Bouhtouri
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Saad Benali
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Ait Bouhou Rachid
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Fatima El Mangoub
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Moulay Mehdi Elhassani
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Jaouad Kouach
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Mohammed V Military University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
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Cima LN, Tarna M, Martin CS, Sirbu AE, Soare I, Panaitescu AM, Gica N, Barbu CG, Fica S. Preconceptional Counseling in Women with Hyperthyroidism. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:234. [PMID: 38399522 PMCID: PMC10890308 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60020234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Preconception evaluation of couples wishing to conceive is an important step toward a healthy pregnancy and it is especially important in people with a chronic condition or at genetic risk. The most common endocrine disorders in women at reproductive age are those involving the thyroid gland and it is well recognized that hyperthyroidism (HT), over-function of the thyroid gland, is associated with risks of maternal, fetal, and neonatal complications. The aim of this paper is to review the latest evidence regarding the components of preconception counseling in women with HT that contemplate a pregnancy. We also want to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the importance of periconceptional counseling in improving pregnancy outcomes and avoid maternal and fetal complications related to thyroid dysfunction. In women with Graves' disease seeking pregnancy, it is essential to discuss all the treatment options along with the associated risks and benefits. Extensive prospective studies are still needed to understand the implications of current recommended strategies for the management of HT in preconception and during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luminita Nicoleta Cima
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Tarna
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen Sorina Martin
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Elena Sirbu
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia Soare
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Maria Panaitescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- "Filantropia" Clinical Hospital, 011171 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Gica
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- "Filantropia" Clinical Hospital, 011171 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen Gabriela Barbu
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Fica
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, "Elias" Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Demetrian M, Botezatu R, Gică N, Safta V, Grecu G, Dima V, Binișor AD, Panaitescu A. Gestational Alloimune Liver Disease-Case Report. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:children10010066. [PMID: 36670617 PMCID: PMC9857314 DOI: 10.3390/children10010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We describe the case of a newborn with the antenatal onset of hepatic failure, which has been investigated for all etiologies that can cause liver damage: infectious, metabolic, genetic, and immune. The lack of a clear answer regarding the etiology and the response to immunoglobulin therapy led us to the diagnosis of gestational alloimmune liver disease. Gestational alloimunne liver disease is an uncommon and very severe cause of neonatal acute liver failure (NALF). Initially, the therapeutic approach aimed at correcting the effects produced by iron loading, respectively, iron chelators and antioxidants. Since all aspects of this case indicated characteristic features typical for GALD, therapy with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) was introduced. If such therapy alters the prognosis of newborns with GALD, the etiology and pathophysiology remain uncertain. However, in cases regarding severe hepatic failure with the perinatal onset and apparently unknown etiology, immunoglobulin or exchange transfusion therapy should be taken into account even before finalizing all the etiological investigations. The prognosis is uncertain and varies between clinical resolution, chronic hepatitis/cirrhosis, and the need for a hepatic transplant, and overall survival depends on prompt therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Radu Botezatu
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Gică
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Georgeta Grecu
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Dima
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Anca Panaitescu
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Bhatia S, Aggarwal N, Vaidya A, Puri RD. Fetal Endocardial Valvular and Supravalvular Calcification as a Manifestation of Anti-Ro/SSA-La/SSB Antibody Mediated Cardiac Phenotype. JOURNAL OF FETAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40556-022-00351-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Preconception Counseling in Patients with Hypothyroidism and/or Thyroid Autoimmunity. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58081122. [PMID: 36013589 PMCID: PMC9415345 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58081122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Preconception counseling is an essential tool for preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with thyroid dysfunction. The high prevalence of thyroid disease among women of reproductive age, and the increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with thyroid dysfunction, emphasize the necessity for well-established screening and treatment criteria in the preconception period. We therefore conducted a literature review for relevant information on the screening, diagnosis and treatment of subclinical and overt hypothyroidism in women seeking pregnancy. While screening for thyroid disease is recommended only in the presence of risk factors, iodine supplementation should be recommended in most regions, with higher doses in areas with severe deficiency. Known hypothyroid women should be counseled about increasing their levothyroxine dose by 20–30% in the case of suspected or confirmed pregnancy (missed menstrual cycle or positive pregnancy test). Treating subclinical hypothyroidism appears to be beneficial, especially in the presence of autoimmunity or in patients undergoing artificial reproductive techniques. Regarding the management of TPOAb negative SCH women or euthyroid women with positive TPOAb, further research is necessary in order to make evidence-based recommendations.
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Moise KJ, Oepkes D, Lopriore E, Bredius RGM. Targeting neonatal Fc receptor: potential clinical applications in pregnancy. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2022; 60:167-175. [PMID: 35229965 DOI: 10.1002/uog.24891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays an important role in the transfer of the immunoglobulin G isotype (IgG) from the mother to the fetus. FcRn expressed on endothelial cells also binds to IgG and albumin, regulating the circulating half-lives of these proteins. Alloimmune and autoimmune IgG antibodies have been implicated in various perinatal immune-mediated diseases. FcRn-mediated placental transfer of pathogenic antibodies can result in cell and tissue injury in the fetus and neonate, with devastating outcomes. Thus, blockade of FcRn may be an effective treatment strategy in managing these conditions and could additionally reduce the concentration of pathogenic antibodies in the maternal circulation by preventing IgG recycling. In this review, we discuss the biology of FcRn, the rationale and considerations for development of FcRn-blocking agents, and their potential clinical applications in various perinatal immune-mediated diseases. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Moise
- Department of Women's Health, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - D Oepkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E Lopriore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - R G M Bredius
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis and Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature and Case Presentation. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58080984. [PMID: 35893099 PMCID: PMC9331898 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58080984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP) is a rare, usually autoimmune, disease, where surfactant accumulates within alveoli due to decreased clearance, causing dyspnea and hypoxemia. The disease is even more rare in pregnancy; nevertheless, it has been reported in pregnant women and can even appear for the first time during pregnancy as an asthma-like illness. Therefore, awareness is important. Similarly to many autoimmune diseases, it can worsen during pregnancy and postpartum, causing maternal and fetal/neonatal complications. This paper offers a narrative literature review of PAP and pregnancy, while illustrating a case of a pregnant patient with known PAP who developed preeclampsia in the third trimester but had an overall fortunate maternal and neonatal outcome.
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Recurrent Congenital Heart Block Due to Maternal Anti-Ro Antibodies: Successful Prevention of Poor Pregnancy Outcome with Hydroxychloroquine and Added Dexamethasone. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed3010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune Congenital Heart Block (CHB) is an immune-mediated disease caused by transplacental passage of maternal circulating anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies which can bind to fetal cardiac tissue, damaging conduction tissues by inflammation and fibrosis. Approximately 2% of pregnancies with positive anti-Ro antibodies will be complicated by fetal atrioventricular block and the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies is 10 times higher. We report a case of a clinically asymptomatic patient diagnosed with anti-Ro antibodies who had two pregnancies complicated by CHB with different outcomes. Despite preventive treatment with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) from 6 weeks of pregnancy onward, the fetus developed second to third degree CHB. Dexamethasone was added. The pregnancy evolved to near-term with persistent intermittent CHB. It is not clear how pregnancies with recurrent fetal CHB despite prophylaxis with HCQ should be managed and there is a need for controlled studies to answer the remaining questions in relation to this subject.
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Cimpoca-Raptis BA, Ciobanu AM, Gica N, Peltecu G, Mitrea D, Panaitescu AM. Fetal Surveillance in Pregnancies with Myasthenia Gravis. Medicina (B Aires) 2021; 57:medicina57111277. [PMID: 34833495 PMCID: PMC8624595 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57111277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune condition, that commonly impacts adult women of reproductive age. Myasthenia gravis in pregnancy is rare, but the incidence is higher in different geographical areas. Pregnancies in mothers with MG can have an unfortunate outcome. Acetylcholine receptor antibodies may pass into the fetal circulation and can affect the fetal neuromuscular junction, generating transient MG or even fetal arthrogryposis. The 2016 and 2021 International Consensus Guidance for Management of Myasthenia Gravis issued by Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America is lacking in recommendation for fetal surveillance for pregnancies in women with MG. The aim of this paper is to highlight fetal and neonatal complications in mothers with MG and to offer antenatal care insights. Close maternal and pregnancy monitoring can improve pregnancy outcome. Patients with MG should be encouraged to conceive, to avoid triggers for exacerbations of the disease during pregnancy and a multidisciplinary team should be established to ensure the optimal support and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brîndușa Ana Cimpoca-Raptis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (B.A.C.-R.); (N.G.); (G.P.); (A.M.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Marina Ciobanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (B.A.C.-R.); (N.G.); (G.P.); (A.M.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Nicolae Gica
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (B.A.C.-R.); (N.G.); (G.P.); (A.M.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gheorghe Peltecu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (B.A.C.-R.); (N.G.); (G.P.); (A.M.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dan Mitrea
- Neuroaxis, Neurology Clinic, 011302 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anca Maria Panaitescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (B.A.C.-R.); (N.G.); (G.P.); (A.M.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
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Evaluation of cardiac function and systolic dyssynchrony of fetuses exposed to maternal autoimmune diseases using speckle tracking echocardiography. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:3807-3815. [PMID: 33813619 PMCID: PMC8357746 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05723-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare cardiac function and systolic dyssynchrony of fetuses not exposed to and those exposed to maternal autoimmune antibodies using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE). METHODS An observational study of 52 fetuses, 18 from mothers with autoimmune antibodies (anti-SSA/Ro60, anti-Ro52 or/and anti-SSB/La) and 34 from healthy mothers without antibodies, was conducted. Maternal baseline characteristics, fetoplacental Doppler parameters, and conventional echocardiographic data were prospectively collected. Systolic global and regional longitudinal strain of left and right ventricle (LV and RV) and the time to peak strain of regional myocardium were measured using 2DSTE. We also calculated the differences in time to peak strain between the LV free wall and RV free wall (two-chamber dyssynchrony, 2C-DYS) and the LV dyssynchrony between the septum and LV free wall (one-chamber dyssynchrony, 1C-DYS). RESULTS There were no significant differences in conventional systolic and diastolic functional parameters for the LV and RV. No effect modification was demonstrated in a myocardial deformation analysis. However, 1C-DYS was significantly more prolonged in the maternal autoimmune disease group (19.50 [8.00 to 29.25] vs. 28.50 [13.50 to 39.25], P = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS LV systolic mechanical dyssynchrony in fetuses of mothers with autoimmune antibodies suggests in-utero subclinical damage of the cardiac conduction system. Key points • The left ventricular systolic dyssynchrony was significantly more prolonged in the maternal autoimmune disease (AD) fetuses. • Subclinical damage to the left ventricular conduction system of the fetal heart in maternal AD was observed. • Systolic and diastolic functional of the left and right ventricle were preserved in fetuses exposed to maternal autoimmune disease.
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Ciobanu AM, Dumitru AE, Gica N, Botezatu R, Peltecu G, Panaitescu AM. Benefits and Risks of IgG Transplacental Transfer. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E583. [PMID: 32806663 PMCID: PMC7459488 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10080583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal passage of immunoglobulin G (IgG) is an important passive mechanism for protecting the infant while the neonatal immune system is still immature and ineffective. IgG is the only antibody class capable of crossing the histological layers of the placenta by attaching to the neonatal Fc receptor expressed at the level of syncytiotrophoblasts, and it offers protection against neonatal infectious pathogens. In pregnant women with autoimmune or alloimmune disorders, or in those requiring certain types of biological therapy, transplacental passage of abnormal antibodies may cause fetal or neonatal harm. In this review, we will discuss the physiological mechanisms and benefits of transplacental transfer of maternal antibodies as well as pathological maternal situations where this system is hijacked, potentially leading to adverse neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Marina Ciobanu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania; (A.M.C.); (N.G.); (R.B.); (G.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 11171, Romania;
| | | | - Nicolae Gica
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania; (A.M.C.); (N.G.); (R.B.); (G.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 11171, Romania;
| | - Radu Botezatu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania; (A.M.C.); (N.G.); (R.B.); (G.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 11171, Romania;
| | - Gheorghe Peltecu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania; (A.M.C.); (N.G.); (R.B.); (G.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 11171, Romania;
| | - Anca Maria Panaitescu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania; (A.M.C.); (N.G.); (R.B.); (G.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 11171, Romania;
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Popescu MR, Dudu A, Jurcut C, Ciobanu AM, Zagrean AM, Panaitescu AM. A Broader Perspective on Anti-Ro Antibodies and Their Fetal Consequences-A Case Report and Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E478. [PMID: 32674462 PMCID: PMC7399931 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10070478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of maternal Anti-Ro/Anti-La antibodies causes a passively acquired autoimmunity that may be associated with serious fetal complications. The classic example is the autoimmune-mediated congenital heart block (CHB) which is due in most cases to the transplacental passage of Anti-Ro/Anti-La antibodies. The exact mechanisms through which these pathologic events arise are linked to disturbances in calcium channels function, impairment of calcium homeostasis and ultimately apoptosis, inflammation and fibrosis. CHB still represents a challenging diagnosis and a source of debate regarding the best management. As the third-degree block is usually irreversible, the best strategy is risk awareness and prevention. Although CHB is a rare occurrence, it affects one in 20,000 live births, with a high overall mortality rate (up to 20%, with 70% of in utero deaths). There is also concern over the lifelong consequences, as most babies need a pacemaker. This review aims to offer, apart from the data needed for a better understanding of the issue at hand, a broader perspective of the specialists directly involved in managing this pathology: the rheumatologist, the maternal-fetal specialist and the cardiologist. To better illustrate the theoretical facts presented, we also include a representative clinical case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Roxana Popescu
- Cardiology Department, Elias University Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Dudu
- Internal Medicine Department, “Dr Carol Davila” Central Emergency University Military Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania; (A.D.); (C.J.)
| | - Ciprian Jurcut
- Internal Medicine Department, “Dr Carol Davila” Central Emergency University Military Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania; (A.D.); (C.J.)
| | - Anca Marina Ciobanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filantropia Clinical Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011171 Bucharest, Romania; (A.M.C.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Ana-Maria Zagrean
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, Department of Functional Sciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anca Maria Panaitescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filantropia Clinical Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011171 Bucharest, Romania; (A.M.C.); (A.M.P.)
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Dillon CF, Weisman MH, Miller FW. Population-based estimates of humoral autoimmunity from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 1960-2014. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226516. [PMID: 31929535 PMCID: PMC6957172 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Based on US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data, we attempted to provide an unbiased, population-based estimate of autoantibody prevalence overall and by age and sex. Methods US autoantibody prevalence estimates for detectable rheumatoid factor, anti-thyroglobulin, anti-thyroperoxidase, anti-transglutaminase, anti-endomysial, anti-GAD65, antinuclear autoantibodies, and autoantibodies to extractable nuclear antigens were estimated from the 1960–1962 National Health Examination Survey, NHANES III (1988–1994), and the NHANES 1999–2014 cross-sectional surveys. Survey design variables and sample weights were used to account for differential probabilities of selection within the complex survey design. Data analysis used SASTM and SUDAAN™ software. US Census Bureau data were used to estimate the absolute numbers of persons with autoantibodies. Results NHANES III data show that the overall US prevalence of having a detectable serum autoantibody is substantial in adults, in both women and men. Thyroid autoantibodies were present in 18% of US adults (31 million persons) including 10% of younger adults and 25% of older persons. Overall autoantibody prevalences increased significantly with age: 32% of US adults 60+ years of age (12.8 million persons) had at least one of the four autoantibodies rheumatoid factor, anti-thyroglobulin, anti-thyroperoxidase, or anti-tissue transglutaminase. Older women had higher levels of autoantibodies, but this was a relative difference. Autoantibody prevalence in both sexes was substantial (women 39%; men 22%). Fourteen percent of adults 60+ years of age have multiple autoantibodies. Conclusions Autoantibodies are present in a significant fraction of the general population, especially in older adults and women relative to men. Although all known clinically significant autoantibodies were not analyzed, these data provide an important population perspective on the scope and magnitude of humoral autoimmunity in the US. This is vital for prevention efforts to reduce autoimmune disease and helps clarify the potential impact of autoimmunity on the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles F. Dillon
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Michael H. Weisman
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Frederick W. Miller
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Delay F, Dochez V, Biquard F, Cheve MT, Gillard P, Arthuis CJ, Winer N. Management of fetal goiters: 6-year retrospective observational study in three prenatal diagnosis and treatment centers of the Pays De Loire Perinatal Network. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 33:2561-2569. [PMID: 30513035 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1555803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The incidence of fetal goiters is reported to be around 1 per 40,000 births. The risk of complications is first of all obstetric, directly related to goiter size, but it may also affect longer term fetal and child development, depending on whether the goiter is due to hypo- or hyperthyroidism. Management is multidisciplinary, but not yet consensual and not always optimal by either endocrinologists or obstetricians.Objectives: The principal objective of this retrospective study was to analyze the data that enabled the physicians to assess whether the goiter was hypo- or hyperthyroid and then to analyze the obstetric practices used in the Pays de Loire network to describe in detail the tools used to diagnose and characterize the goiters and the management chosen in these cases. The secondary objectives are to assess, in our small cohort, the effectiveness of the in utero treatments provided, based on the examination of the children at birth and their outcome at 6 months of life, and to suggest a strategy for monitoring these women at risk that takes current guidelines into consideration.Materials and methods: This multicenter retrospective study covers a 6-year period and focused on the prenatal diagnosis centers (CPDPN) of the Pays de Loire perinatal network: in Nantes, Angers, and Le Mans. The network is responsible for around 42,000 births a year, and the study included 17 women, for a prevalence of 1 per 15,000 births.Results: Ten of the 17 fetuses had a hypothyroid goiter, 4 a hyperthyroid goiter, and 3 normal thyroid findings on fetal blood sample (FBS). For four women, these goiters were secondary to fetal dyshormonogenesis, for 9 more to Graves disease with TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), and for four women to thyrotoxicosis at the start of pregnancy, managed by synthetic antithyroid drugs. Two newborns had severe complications associated with maternal transmission of Graves disease (TRAb positive at birth): one with exophthalmos and one with neonatal tachycardia. The other 14 had normal psychomotor development at 6 months, based on a clinical examination by a pediatric endocrinologist; only one child was lost to follow-up.Conclusion: Together, ultrasound and multidisciplinary expertise (of an endocrinologist and an obstetrician experienced with this disease) remain the best means for avoiding, or otherwise for accurately characterizing fetal goiter. An ultrasound diagnostic score, of the type proposed by Luton et al. in 2009, may make it possible to homogenize practices and thus to defer or delay the - currently too common - performance of invasive FBS procedures, which must remain rare in this management to limit comorbidities. A threshold TRAb value (>5 IU/l) makes it possible to define this group of women as at risk of fetal and neonatal hyperthyroidism and thus requiring close monitoring. The value of prenatal intra-amniotic thyroxine treatment for hypothyroid goiters (including dyshormonogenesis) remains to be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Delay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, CIC Hôpital Mère-Enfant, Nantes, France
| | - Vincent Dochez
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, CIC Hôpital Mère-Enfant, Nantes, France.,INRA, UMR1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Florence Biquard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Marie-Thérèse Cheve
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Le Mans General Hospital, Le Mans, France
| | - Philippe Gillard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU Angers, Angers, France.,Securite Naissance-Naitre ensemble, Perinatal Network Pays de Loire, Nantes, France
| | - C J Arthuis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, CIC Hôpital Mère-Enfant, Nantes, France.,Securite Naissance-Naitre ensemble, Perinatal Network Pays de Loire, Nantes, France
| | - Norbert Winer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, CIC Hôpital Mère-Enfant, Nantes, France.,INRA, UMR1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, Nantes, France.,Securite Naissance-Naitre ensemble, Perinatal Network Pays de Loire, Nantes, France
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