Obstetric Medicine recent issues

Training in obstetric medicine: a global issue

Lowe, S., Nelson-Piercy, C., Rosene-Montella, K. — 2009-09-01

Sepsis in pregnancy and early goal-directed therapy

Joseph, J., Sinha, A., Paech, M., Walters, B. N J — 2009-09-01

Sepsis is a major cause of serious morbidity and mortality in pregnant women and their babies. Conventional management has evolved over many years. Improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and randomized clinical trials have led to recommendations for the formalization and standardization of the management of severe sepsis in non-pregnant patients. Most of these recommendations are applicable to pregnancy. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign and Early Goal Directed Therapy have relevance to the care of pregnant women with serious infection and are reviewed here.

Sleep disorders in pregnancy

Bourjeily, G. — 2009-09-01

Sleep complaints are a common occurrence in pregnancy that are in part due to pregnancy-associated anatomic and physiological changes but may also be due to pathological causes. In the non-pregnant population, sleep deprivation has been associated with physical and cognitive issues; poor sleep may even be associated with adverse maternal outcomes. Maternal obesity, one of the most prevalent risk factors in obstetric practices, together with physiologic changes of pregnancy predispose to the development of sleep disordered breathing. Symptoms of sleep disordered breathing have also been associated with poor maternal outcomes. Management options of restless legs syndrome and narcolepsy pose a challenge in pregnancy; benefits of therapy need to be weighed against the potential harm to the fetus. This article briefly reviews the normal changes in pregnancy affecting sleep, gives an overview of certain sleep disorders occurring in pregnancy, and suggests management options specific for this population.

Risk perception and unrecognized type 2 diabetes in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus

Malcolm, J., Lawson, M. L, Gaboury, I., Keely, E. — 2009-09-01

Women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have a high chance of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) following the index pregnancy, however, little is known of women's perception of this risk. The objectives were to (1) determine women's perception of risk of future development of T2DM following a GDM pregnancy and (2) describe the prevalence of undetected dysglycaemia in a Canadian population. The study was designed as a 9–11 year follow-up study of women previously enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of tight versus minimal intervention for GDM. Women's perception of future risk of diabetes was determined by questionnaire. Fasting lipid profile, height and weight were performed on all participants. Oral glucose tolerance tests were performed on all women without prior history of diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2). The study was conducted at Ottawa Hospital General Campus and Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, in Ottawa, Canada. Eighty-nine of 299 (30%) of the original cohort were recruited. Eighty-eight women completed the questionnaire and 77 women without known diabetes underwent two hour glucose tolerance testing. Twenty-three (30%) felt their risk was no different than other women or did not know, 27 (35%) felt risk was increased a little and 27 (35%) felt risk was increased a lot. Only 52% (40/77) had normal glucose tolerance. Of all, 25/88 (28%) patients had diabetes (11 previously diagnosed and 14 diagnosed within the study). Of those newly diagnosed with DM2, four (29%) were diagnosed by fasting glucose, six (42%) by two hour glucose tolerance test (GTT) alone and four (29%) by both. Twenty-four of the women (27%) had impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Of those with IGT, 12 (57%) had a fasting food glucose < 5.6 mmol/L. In the high-risk perception group with newly diagnosed diabetes, two were overweight, seven were obese, four had a family history of DM2, and all had a waist circumference >88 cm. In conclusion the perception of being at high risk for T2DM did not prevent women from having undetected T2DM. Many factors are likely to contribute to this, including the reliance on screening tests (i.e. fasting glucose) rather than a two hour GTT to detect diabetes. Further studies on effective public and health-care provider education and intervention are needed to identify this high-risk population.

Thromboelastography and peripartum coagulation profiles associated with caesarean section delivery

Smith, R, Campbell-Owen, T, Maybury, H, Pavord, S, Waugh, J — 2009-09-01

Thromboembolic (TE) disease remains the leading direct cause of maternal death in the UK and caesarean section increases TE risk. Women are assessed for their TE risk and may receive thromboprophylaxis. From a single blood sample thromboelastography^® (TEG^®) allows a test of coagulation. Blood samples from women undergoing elective caesarean sections were collected at specific stages: antenatally, following overnight ‘nil-by-mouth’, immediately after surgery, four hours post-delivery and 24 hours post-delivery. Analyses of the R time (time taken for blood to clot) and maximum amplitude (MA) (overall clot strength) were performed. Analyses of the high and moderate risks cohorts were performed and compared to the low risk group.

Fifty-four women were recruited. A reduction in the R time was demonstrated following pre-operative fluid restriction and a further reduction in R time occurred after surgery. The R time increased 24 hours after surgery and became comparable to pre-operative levels. The MA changed similarly due to pre-operative fluid restriction. Analysis also showed that pre-operatively, the combined high and moderate risk groups’ R time was shorter than the low risk group. The high and moderate risk group, having received thromboprophylaxis, had similar R times 24 hours postoperatively compared to the low risk group. TEG^® demonstrates that following pre-operative fluid restriction and surgery women become hypercoagulable but by 24 hours coagulation has returned to third trimester levels. Sub-group analysis suggests the relative pre-operative hypercoagulability of high and moderate risk women compared to low risk women, becoming comparable after 24 hours following thromboprophylaxis.

Blood pressure measurement in pregnancy: the effect of arm circumference and sphygmomanometer cuff size

Kho, C. L, Brown, M. A, Ong, S. L H, Mangos, G. J — 2009-09-01

This study aimed to assess the difference in blood pressure readings between the standard and large cuff and to determine if such a difference applies over a range of arm circumferences (ACs) in pregnancy. We measured blood pressure on 219 antenatal women. Six blood pressure readings were taken, three with a standard ‘adult’ and three with a ‘large’ cuff, in random order. A random zero sphygmomanometer was used by a trained observer. Women with an AC >33 cm were similar in age, gestational age and parity but were heavier and had more hypertension than those with AC ≤33 cm. There was a systematic difference between the standard and large cuff of 5–7 mmHg with little effect due to AC. We were unable to demonstrate an association between the standard and large cuff blood pressure difference and increasing blood pressure. Our study has shown that both systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements are more dependent on the cuff size used than AC and for the individual it is difficult to predict the magnitude of effect the different cuff sizes will have on blood pressure measurements. This study has shown the presence of an average difference in blood pressure measurement between standard and large cuffs in pregnancy, and does not support the arbitrary 33 cm ‘cut-off’ recommended in guidelines for the use of a large cuff in pregnancy.

Serum cystatin is not a marker of glomerular filtration rate in pregnancy

Bramham, K., Makanjuola, D., Hussein, W., Cafful, D., Shehata, H. — 2009-09-01

The role of cystatin C (Cys-C) as a marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in pregnancy is undetermined. Measurements of Cys-C and creatinine (Cr) were taken at 14–17⁺⁶, 18–23⁺⁶, 27–31⁺⁶ weeks' gestation, at delivery and 2–6 weeks postpartum in a prospective observational study of 27 women. There was no difference between Cys-C levels in early and late second trimester, but they were significantly higher in early third trimester (P < 0.001) than second trimester, despite no concurrent increase in Cr. Cys-C was also significantly higher at delivery than at all other times in pregnancy (P < 0.001) and fell to postpartum values higher than second trimester measurements (P < 0.01), but lower than delivery (P<0.001). In conclusion, changes in Cys-C may be influenced by pregnancy-related changes in glomerular filtration and therefore we would advise against their use as a marker of GFR in pregnancy.

Hereditary angioedema and pregnancy: successful management of recurrent and frequent attacks of angioedema with C1-inhibitor concentrate, danazol and tranexamic acid - a case report

Milingos, D S, Madhuvrata, P, Dean, J, Shetty, A, Campbell, D M — 2009-09-01

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by deficiency of C1 esterase inhibitor. It is characterized by subcutaneous swelling in any part of the skin, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. We present the case of a pregnant woman with known HAE that deteriorated during pregnancy with frequent attacks that were managed successfully with danazol, tranexamic acid and regular intravenous administration of C1 esterase inhibitor.

A rare case of idiopathic thrombocytopenia in association with an ovarian teratoma in pregnancy

Soma-Pillay, P, Macdonald, A P, Mnisi, E — 2009-09-01

Thrombocytopenia complicates 6–7% of pregnancies. We present the case of a 26-year-old patient who presented with severe thrombocytopenia associated with an ovarian teratoma in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome in pregnancy: a retrospective series

Stern, J S, Orth, M, Robertson, M M — 2009-09-01

Tourette syndrome is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by motor and vocal tics with further co-morbidities, e.g. obsessive–compulsive disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. There is only a single prior case report in pregnancy in addition to a postal questionnaire study including 10 pregnancies. In a series of 11 pregnancies in patients assessed by the authors, there were no adverse effects on the pregnancy, although some obstetricians were unduly concerned. There was no consistent effect on the severity of the tics, although in some women there seemed to be a significant improvement during pregnancy.

Renal Disease in Pregnancy

Joseph, G., Hladunewich, M. — 2009-09-01

Heart Disease in Pregnancy, 2nd Edition

Head, C. — 2009-09-01

Errata

2009-09-01

Errata

2009-09-01

Errata

2009-09-01

Successful use of dexamethasone when prednisolone is not tolerated

Heazlewood, V J, Ratnapala, M, Cochrane, L — 2009-09-01

Intrauterine growth rates in diabetic pregnancies and clinical outcomes

Peek, M., Nanan, R. — 2009-09-01

Obstetric medicine: bridging the gap

Lowe, S., Nelson-Piercy, C., Rosene-Montella, K. — 2009-05-22

Management of lymphoma in pregnancy

Hodby, K, Fields, P A — 2009-05-22

One in every thousand pregnancies is complicated by a concurrent diagnosis of cancer. Lymphoma is currently the fourth most common malignancy diagnosed during pregnancy and its incidence is rising. The diagnosis and management of any malignancy during pregnancy is clearly a clinical and emotional minefield for both patients and health-care professionals. The major challenge is to optimize medical treatment offered to the mother, while limiting the impact on the fetus. Given the relative rarity of the situation, current practice is guided by case reports and personal experience of management of similar patients. Our centre has a large and busy lymphoma practice, and has cared for several women diagnosed with a variety of subtypes of lymphoma over the years. This review aims to summarize current opinion about best practice regarding these patients and discusses options available from the current literature.

Obesity in pregnancy: risks and management

Fitzsimons, K. J, Modder, J., Greer, I. A — 2009-05-22

Maternal obesity is now considered one of the most commonly occurring risk factors seen in obstetric practice. Compared with women with a healthy pre-pregnancy weight, women with obesity are at increased risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, venous thromboembolism, induced labour, caesarean section, anaesthetic complications and wound infections, and they are less likely to initiate or maintain breastfeeding. Babies of obese mothers are at increased risk of stillbirth, congenital anomalies, prematurity, macrosomia and neonatal death. Intrauterine exposure to obesity is also associated with an increased risk of developing obesity and metabolic disorders in childhood. This article reviews the prevalence of obesity in pregnancy and the associated maternal and fetal complications. Recommendations and suggestions for pre-conception, antenatal and postnatal care of women with obesity are presented, and current research in the UK and future research priorities are considered.

Evidence-based medicine in obstetrics: can levels B and C recommendations be elevated to level A recommendations?

2009-05-22

In this study, 65% (132/195) of level B/C obstetric recommendations are amenable to randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and seven were identified as most needed. The purpose of the survey was to evaluate levels B and C recommendations in obstetric practice bulletins (PBs) regarding the feasibility of performing RCT to elevate each subject to level A evidence. Eleven geographically dispersed physicians with experience in research reviewed levels B and C recommendations for the ethical and logistical feasibility of performing an RCT. In the 35 obstetric PBs, 195 level B/C recommendations were reviewed. The majority considered 47 (24%) topics unethical for an RCT and thought 16 (11%) did not need an RCT, thus leaving 132 (67%) levels B and C recommendations available for an RCT. Two-thirds of levels B and C recommendations in obstetric PB are amenable to RCTs and potentially becoming level A evidence.

The angiotensin-converting enzyme gene insertion-deletion polymorphism in a white British patient cohort with obstetric cholestasis

2009-05-22

The DD genotype of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene is over-represented in Finnish patients with obstetric cholestasis (OC). The purpose of this study was to establish whether this genotype is associated with cholestasis in UK cases. In a retrospective case-control study, we determined the ACE insertion/deletion frequencies in 166 British cases and 100 control women by polymerase chain reaction analysis. No significant difference in allele frequencies was found between these groups, but allele frequencies differed significantly between Finnish and UK OC cases (P = 0.0005). The prevalence of the DD genotype is lower in UK cases than in controls (² [1 d.f.] = 4.32, P = 0.05) and the odds ratio for OC associated with the DD genotypeis 0.54, 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.97. In contrast to Finnish OC cases, the DD genotype of the ACE is not increased in UK cases.

Interview with Professor Chris Redman: a 'grandfather' of obstetric medicine

Henderson, E. — 2009-05-22

Stroke during induction of labour in a patient with carotid aneurysm and prior multiple venous thromboses

Datta, S., Stern, J. S, Williams, B. — 2009-05-22

A case of stroke during induction of labour in a pregnant patient at term anticoagulated for prior venous thrombosis is reported. The cause was a middle cerebral artery embolism, originating from a false dissecting aneurysm of the internal carotid artery. Investigations and causes of stroke in a pregnant patient are briefly outlined.

Pregnancy complicating Wegener's granulomatosis

Soh, M. C., Hart, H. H, Bass, E., Wilkinson, L. — 2009-05-22

Pregnancy associated with Wegener's granulomatosis is rare. Therapeutic options are limited. There is a paucity of published literature to guide clinical decision-making in these complex patients. Two cases are presented. Firstly, a 33-year-old woman with generalized Wegener's in remission and off all medications presented with a flare in the third trimester with haemoptysis, raised C-reactive protein and c-anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (c-ANCA) levels. Her care was complicated by florid steroid-induced psychosis. With deteriorating disease control, she was treated with pulsed-intravenous cyclophosphamide with a good response. She delivered a healthy baby at 38 weeks. She had a severe postpartum flare. Secondly, a 37-year-old woman with limited Wegener's in remission for the last two years and off all treatment became pregnant after pre-conception counselling. A normal baby was delivered at term. An exhaustive review of all published literature on Wegener's activity in pregnancy is presented along with therapeutic options and recommendations.

Acute unilateral cataract in a postpartum adolescent with poorly-controlled type 1 diabetes

Ahmad, S S, Misra, A, Glenn, A, Temple, R C — 2009-05-22

Acute cataract is recognized as a rare complication in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus and may be associated with rapid improvement in glycaemia in patients with newly diagnosed diabetes. Transient cataracts, which resolve following improved metabolic control, and irreversible cataracts requiring surgery have also previously been documented. Development or progression of retinopathy may complicate pregnancy in women with diabetes. To our knowledge, we present the first case report of an acute cataract developing postpartum in a woman with type 1 diabetes.

This rare case serves to demonstrate a possible association between acute cataract and altered glycaemic control in pregnancy. Acute cataract should be considered in any woman with diabetes who develops sudden visual loss following pregnancy.

Multiple pneumothoraces during second and third trimesters as first presentation of lymphangioleiomyomatosis

2009-05-22

A case of lymphangioleiomyomatosis presenting as multiple pneumothoraces during pregnancy is described below. Presentations, management and prognosis are discussed.

Lowe, S. — 2009-05-22

Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation 8th Edition: A Reference Guide to Fetal and Neonatal Risk

Freyer, A M — 2009-05-22

The role of obstetric medicine in holistic care

Lowe, S., Nelson-Piercy, C., Rosene-Montella, K. — 2009-03-02

Calcium metabolism in pregnancy and lactation

White, C P — 2009-03-02

Homeostatic adaptation to maternal calcium metabolism is a prerequisite for optimal delivery of sufficient calcium to the fetus and neonate during pregnancy and lactation, respectively. This article outlines the major adaptations known to occur and the physiological regulators likely to be principally involved. Importantly, different adaptive responses are used in pregnancy and lactation. The rarity of calcium disorders in pregnancy underscores the successful implementation of these adaptations in most women. For those few women with either pre-existing or pregnancy-acquired disorders of calcium metabolism, a knowledge of normal physiology is essential to understand the implications for managing these disorders in pregnant women.

Mitral valve disease in pregnancy: outcomes and management

Tsiaras, S., Poppas, A. — 2009-03-02

Young women may have asymptomatic mitral valve disease which becomes unmasked during the haemodynamic stress of pregnancy. Rheumatic mitral stenosis is the most common cardiac disease found in women during pregnancy. The typical increased volume and heart rate of pregnancy are not well tolerated in patients with more than mild stenosis. Maternal complications of atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure can occur, and are increased in patients with poor functional class and severe pulmonary artery hypertension. Patients can be diagnosed by echocardiography and symptoms treated with beta-1 antagonists and cautious diuresis. Patients with heart failure unresponsive to treatment can undergo percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Labour and delivery goals include reducing tachycardia by adequate pain control and minimized volume shifts. Mitral valve regurgitation, even when severe, is usually very well tolerated in pregnancy as the increase in volume is offset by a decrease in vascular resistance. On the other hand, patients with left ventricular dysfunction, moderate pulmonary hypertension or NYHA functional class III-IV are at increased risk for heart failure and arrhythmias. They may need cautious diuresis and limitations on physical activity during pregnancy, as well as invasive haemodynamic monitoring for labour and delivery. Vaginal delivery is preferred and caesarean section reserved for obstetric indications.

Pregnancy after bariatric surgery: no problem?

Gidiri, M., Greer, I. A — 2009-03-02

Bariatric surgery is highly effective for weight loss in morbid obesity. With the high prevalence of severe obesity in the developed world, and the acknowledgement of the effectiveness of these procedures by National Institute for Clinical Excellence (in the UK) and the Food and Drug Administration (in the USA), women with severe obesity will increasingly seek such treatment. As the majority of these patients are women of reproductive age, obstetricians will encounter these patients frequently during pregnancy. It is therefore important for obstetricians to gain an insight into the types of surgery performed, the potential complications, including nutritional deficiency, and appropriate management of pregnancy following weight-loss surgery. In general, bariatric surgery is associated with a reduction in obesity related complication, with no apparent increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Liver dysfunction in pregnancy: an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Pakistan

Hossain, N, Shamsi, T, Kuczynski, E, Lockwood, C J, Paidas, M J — 2009-03-02

The objective of this study was to evaluate the maternal and perinatal outcome of women with liver dysfunction during pregnancy. The study involved a prospective observational study design and was carried out at the Dow University of Health Sciences and Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 800 women, who delivered during the study period from January 2006 to September 2006, constituted the study population. Pregnant women with liver dysfunction underwent evaluation for the aetiology of their liver dysfunction, including screening for hepatitis E. Thirty-five women were identified with liver dysfunction. Fourteen (40%) presented in the second trimester and 21 (60%) presented in the third trimester. Twenty-two of the 35 women (63%) had isolated acute hepatitis E; five (14%) had HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count) syndrome; two (6%) had intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (IHCP), two had acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) and two women had hepatitis A. A specific diagnosis was not reached in two women who died prior to delivery. In women with hepatitis E, the mean values of bilirubin and alanine transaminase were 12 mg/dL and 675 U/L, respectively. Abnormal coagulation parameters were present in 20 (57%) of the women and in 18 of 22 (82%) with hepatitis E. Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) was seen in four patients. Seven women (20%) underwent caesarean section, 26 (74%) delivered vaginally and two women died undelivered. There were six maternal deaths in the study population; two were due to hepatitis E, one each from HELLP and AFLP, and two remained undiagnosed. The overall perinatal mortality within the group was 43%. Hepatitis E was the most common cause of FHF and maternal death in pregnant women with liver dysfunction.

Intrauterine growth rate in pregnancies complicated by type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes

2009-03-02

Fetal macrosomia is a feature of all subtypes of maternal diabetes. The intrauterine time course of development of macrosomia in type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes (GDM) could identify the times of more rapid growth, which differ as a result of different influences in subtypes of diabetes. Higher maternal weight in type 2 and GDM may be expected to contribute to macrosomia and the blood glucose control will exert an additional influence. Information was collected prospectively on 217 pregnancies in insulin-treated women at a single centre over a six-year period. All women were managed by a single team of obstetricians and diabetologists at a Joint Obstetric Medical Clinic. The rate of increase in abdominal circumference from 28 weeks was identical in each subtype of diabetes and there were no differences between subtypes at the earliest gestation assessed. Use of customized growth centiles showed rates of macrosomia to be similar in type 1, type 2 and GDM (43.0%, 50.0% and 41.8%, respectively). The intrauterine time course to macrosomia is similar in type 1, type 2 and GDM. The relationship of macrosomia to extent of elevation of mean blood glucose control is weak, implying a low threshold for maximal effect on the rate of fetal growth.

Aplastic anaemia in pregnancy with severe thrombocytopenia refractory to platelet transfusion: a case and management plan

Smolinsky, A., Carson, M. P, Guzman, E. R, Ranzini, A., Toscano, J., Bukhari, A. — 2009-03-02

Aplastic anaemia is a rare haematological disorder during pregnancy, which when complicated by severe thrombocytopenia poses a significant maternal risk. A woman with aplastic anaemia and a platelet (PLT) count of 11 x 10⁹/L refractory to PLT transfusion required caesarean delivery. Proactive planning by a multidisciplinary team, large volume PLT transfusion prior to surgery and postoperative uterine artery embolization resulted in avoidance of mortality. Maternal preferences should be discussed in detail due to the high risk of maternal morbidity and mortality associated with severe aplastic anaemia. This report outlines a management plan to address the medical and ethical issues faced when caring for a pregnant patient with severe aplastic anaemia and severe thrombocytopenia. We credit the good outcome to our proactive multidisciplinary approach.

Iliopsoas abscess: an unusual cause of postpartum sepsis

Kwan, A., Bhanshaly, A., Wright, C. — 2009-03-02

Iliopsoas abscess is uncommon in the postpartum period. This case illustrates the presentation of this unusual cause of postpartum sepsis and highlights difficulties in diagnosis.

Deranged liver function tests in pregnancy: the importance of postnatal follow-up

Stone, S., Girling, J. C — 2009-03-02

We report an asymptomatic 40-year-old woman with persistently deranged liver function tests found incidentally in the first trimester of her second pregnancy. No cause was apparent clinically, serologically or with imaging studies until a new finding of hepatomegaly led to a repeat ultrasound scan six weeks following delivery. A mass in the region of the common hepatic duct was confirmed to be a cholangiocarcinoma, with vascular invasion precluding curative surgical resection. This case highlights the need for close vigilance of patients with unexplained and persistently abnormal liver function tests, antenatally and postdelivery.

Termination is not the treatment of choice for severe hyperemesis gravidarum: Successful management using prednisolone

Al-Ozairi, E, Waugh, J J S, Taylor, R — 2009-03-02

Severe hyperemesis gravidarum causes profound maternal morbidity. Termination of pregnancy is still offered before the use of medical therapy. This report describes management of a woman who had undergone two previous terminations for hyperemesis, and additionally presents the dosage profile of prednisolone used to successfully manage a consecutive series of 33 women with severe hyperemesis gravidarum. The treatment protocol is described. The group had a median weight loss in pregnancy of 5.5 kg (range 2.0–12.5 kg), had been admitted on a median of 3.0 (range 0–9) occasions and had spent 7.5 (range 0–25) days on i.v. fluids. Continuing vomiting prevented oral steroid therapy in 14 women and i.v. hydrocortisone (50 mg t.i.d.; two women required 100 mg t.i.d.) was used initially for 24–48 h. Nineteen women commenced prednisolone 10 mg t.i.d. and this achieved suppression of vomiting within 48 h in all but two women who required 15 mg t.i.d. Two distinct subtypes of hyperemesis gravidarum were identified. Remitting hyperemesis spontaneously ceases between 14 and 22 weeks gestation and accounts for approximately 80% of cases. In contrast, full-term hyperemesis persists until minutes after delivery. These separate sub-types have not previously been described. Steroid treatment of hyperemesis should be considered in women who fulfil the criteria of severe disease.

Reaction to anti-D immunoglobulin - can we manage it?

O'Brien, K., Siassakos, D., Birchall, J., Gompels, M., Allford, S., Bidgood, K. — 2009-03-02

Approximately one in six women are blood group RhD negative and are offered anti-D immunoglobulin prophylaxis to prevent sensitization and decrease the risk of haemolytic disease of the newborn in subsequent pregnancies. It has been thought that anti-D is harmless, but there is a risk of anaphylaxis. We describe a case of a woman with a possible immunological reaction to anti-D in her first pregnancy. A multidisciplinary team managed her second pregnancy, offering her evidence-based advice, where available, so that she could reach an informed decision regarding administration of anti-D or not. Women value individual tailored information rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.

Necrotizing fasciitis: a case of hip disarticulation in a postnatal intravenous drug abuser

Rajeswari, J, Smith, N A, Glass, K, Howarth, F — 2009-03-02

An interesting case of necrotizing fasciitis of the leg following emergency caesarian section in a known intravenous drug user. Postnatal day two she developed pain and swelling in the left leg. In view of her previous history, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was the initial diagnosis. But, due to clinically worsening symptoms and no response to anticoagulation, further investigations were done which showed necrotizing fasciitis. Due to disease progression, a hip disarticulation was performed and the patient went on to full recovery.

Medical Care of the Pregnant Patient

Mahmood, N. — 2009-03-02

Obesity and Reproductive Health

Chen, K. K — 2009-03-02

First issue of Obstetric Medicine

Dennis, A. — 2009-03-02

Reply to: First issue of Obstetric Medicine

Nelson-Piercy, C., Lowe, S., Rosene-Montella, K. — 2009-03-02

Onwards and upwards

Lowe, S., Nelson-Piercy, C., Rosene-Montella, K. — 2009-01-23

Fetal microchimerism and maternal health during and after pregnancy

O'Donoghue, K. — 2009-01-23

Trafficking of fetal cells into the maternal circulation begins very early in pregnancy and the effects of this cell traffic are longlasting. All types of fetal cells, including stem cells, cross the placenta during normal pregnancy to enter maternal blood, from where they may be recovered in pregnancy for the purpose of genetic prenatal diagnosis. Fetal cells can also be located in maternal tissues during and after pregnancy, and persist as microchimeric cells for decades in marrow and other organs. Although persistent fetal cells were first implicated in autoimmune disease, subsequent reports routinely found microchimeric cells in healthy tissues and in non-autoimmune disease. Parallel studies in animal and human pregnancy now suggest instead that microchimeric fetal cells play a role in the response to tissue injury. However, it is still not clear whether microchimeric fetal cells persisting in the mother are an incidental finding, are naturally pathogenic or act as reparative stem cells, and the environmental or biological stimuli that determine microchimeric cell fate are as yet undetermined. Future studies must also focus on investigating whether fetal cells create functional improvement in response to maternal injury and whether this response can be manipulated.

The pregnancy-acquired low-grade chimeric state of women could have far-reaching implications, influencing recovery after injury or surgery, ageing, graft survival after transplantation, survival after cancer as well as deciding the protective effect of pregnancy against diseases later in life. Lifelong persistence of fetal cells in maternal tissues may even explain why women live longer than men.

The molecular genetics of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Dixon, P H, Williamson, C — 2009-01-23

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), also known as obstetric cholestasis, causes maternal pruritus and liver impairment, and may be complicated by spontaneous preterm labour, fetal asphyxial events and intrauterine death. Our understanding of the aetiology of this disease has expanded significantly in the last decade due to a better understanding of the role played by genetic factors. In particular, advances in our knowledge of bile homeostasis has led to the identification of genes that play a considerable role in susceptibility to ICP. In this review we consider these advances and discuss the disease in the context of bile synthesis and metabolism, focusing on the genetic discoveries that have shed light on the molecular aetiology and pathophysiology of the condition.

Type 2 diabetes in pregnancy: importance of optimized care before, during and after pregnancy

Keely, E — 2009-01-23

Women with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are an increasingly important part of the practice of obstetric medicine. The rising rates of obesity and advanced maternal age have resulted in a surge in the number of pregnant women with T2DM. The hyperglycaemia and associated conditions of the metabolic syndrome lead to poor obstetric outcome and impact on the long-term health of the mother and offspring. It is essential that women and care-givers recognize the seriousness of T2DM in pregnancy and strive to improve prepregnancy care, obstetric outcome and the long-term health of both the mother and child.

Contraception in women with medical problems

Dhanjal, M. K — 2009-01-23

Women with medical disease have a higher incidence of maternal mortality compared with healthy women, with cardiac disease now being the most common cause of maternal death in the UK. A handful of medical conditions exist where pregnancy is not recommended due to mortality rates approaching 50%. It is imperative that such women have the most reliable methods of contraception available. Contraceptive agents may themselves affect medical disease, or may interact with medications used by such women. There may be a range of contraceptive agents suitable for each medical condition. The contraceptive selected should be tailored to suit the individual. The following points should be considered when deciding on the most appropriate contraceptive agent: efficacy, thrombotic risk (oestrogen containing contraceptives), arterial risks (oestrogen containing contraceptives), infective risk (e.g. insertion of intrauterine device [IUD]), vagal stimulation (e.g. insertion of IUD, ESSURE^®), bleeding risks with patients on anticoagulants, interaction with concomitant drugs, effects of anaesthesia and ease of use. This review aims to cover the different contraceptive agents available and the best ones to use for certain medical illnesses.

The effects of booking body mass index on obstetric and neonatal outcomes in an inner city UK tertiary referral centre

Chereshneva, M., Hinkson, L., Oteng-Ntim, E. — 2009-01-23

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of booking body mass index (BMI) on obstetric and neonatal outcomes in an inner city UK tertiary referral maternity centre. The Guy's and St Thomas' Maternity and Gynaecology (Terranova Healthware) Database was studied. All women that delivered at St Thomas' during 2005 with normal and high BMI were included in the study. Subjects were divided into three groups: BMI 19–24.9 (normal); 25–29.9 (overweight) and 30 or greater (obese). Groups were compared using Stata Statistical software. The study included 3642 patients: 2169 normal, 945 overweight and 528 obese. Both overweight and obese groups had a statistically significant association with gestational diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 5.7 and 11.6), hypertension in pregnancy (including preeclampsia [ORs 1.5 and 2.4], preterm rupture of membranes (ORs 3.7 and 5.0) and preterm delivery (ORs 1.4 and 1.6). The rate for caesarean delivery was increased in both overweight and obese women (ORs 1.4 and 1.7). Obesity is an independent risk factor for adverse obstetric outcomes and is significantly associated with caesarean section delivery.

There is a return to non-pregnant coagulation parameters after four not six weeks postpartum following spontaneous vaginal delivery

Maybury, H J, Waugh, J J S, Gornall, A, Pavord, S — 2009-01-23

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome in the peripartum period

Tong, I. L, Bourjeily, G. — 2009-01-23

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a disease characterized by the triad of oculocutaneous albinism, bleeding diathesis and organ failure secondary to lysosomal accumulation of ceroid lipofuscin. We report the case of a pregnant woman with HPS who had a successful vaginal delivery with the administration of desmopressin.

Anorexia nervosa in pregnancy: a case report and review of the literature

Dinas, K, Daniilidis, A, Sikou, K, Tantanasis, T, Kasmas, S, Tzafettas, J — 2009-01-23

Anorexia nervosa is a complex illness rarely encountered in pregnant women. It is a disorder characterized by markedly decreased food intake accompanied by a distorted body image, resulting in an inability to maintain the body weight within 85% of ideal body weight. We describe a case of a pregnant woman diagnosed with anorexia nervosa at 28 weeks of gestation. Her body mass index was 17 kg/m². A live male infant weighing 2,08 kg was delivered prematurely via vaginal delivery at 35 weeks of gestation. Pregnant women with anorexia nervosa may have a higher risk of hypertension, miscarriage, difficult labour, premature delivery and intrauterine growth restriction. Management of pregnancy complicated with anorexia nervosa requires involvement of a multidisciplinary team and hospitalization in severe cases.

Weakness in pregnancy - expect the unexpected

Furara, S, Maw, M, Khan, F, Powell, K — 2009-01-23

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is rare in pregnancy with an incidence estimated to be between 1.2 and 1.9 cases per 100,000 people annually, and it is generally accepted that it carries a high maternal risk. Delayed diagnosis is common because the initial non-specific symptoms may mimic changes in pregnancy. GBS should be considered in any pregnant patient complaining of muscle weakness, general malaise, tingling of the fingers and respiratory discomfort. This case aims to highlight the importance of early diagnosis, allowing prompt initiation of the immunomodulatory treatments which have been shown to improve outcome alongside multidisciplinary care.

Women's Vascular Health

Hodson, K. — 2009-01-23